In a previous post, I explained how social science helps local governments implement public health planning and programs. This time, I’ll provide some specific examples about how social science addresses issues of social inclusion for vulnerable and marginalised community groups.

Previously, I described how, in the context of health, social inclusion  is about ensuring everyone in the community has access and can fully participate in health services. Social science is used to shape policies, community programs and health services for minority and special needs groups. This includes people of different cultures and different family types, addressing disability and socio-economic issues.

Local councils often have terrific health education and community wellbeing programs, but minority groups may not know where to find information due to their socio-economic and educational background. For example, research shows that a significant proportion of elderly people (54%) do not use the internet, and still prefer to talk on the phone rather than use the internet to find information, yet many local councils have most of their services advertised on their websites.

Continue reading “Health and Social Inclusion”