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Tourism and social policy

Minnaert, wLynn; Maitland, Robert; Miller, Graham

Authors

Robert Maitland

Graham Miller



Abstract

Social Tourism for low-income groups forms part of social policy in several countries of mainland Europe, but little research evidence of its benefits exists. This study empirically examines these benefits in terms of increases in social and family capital. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with participating families and their support workers, in a semi-longitudinal research design. Social Tourism was found to increase family capital in the short term, and social capital—in terms of social networks, related pro-active behavior and self-esteem—in the medium term. These increases can be seen as beneficial for the participants and to wider society. Consequently it is suggested that Social Tourism may be a cost-effective addition to social policy.

Citation

Minnaert, W., Maitland, R., & Miller, G. (2009). Tourism and social policy. Annals of Tourism Research, 36(2), 316-334. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annals.2009.01.002

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Jan 12, 2009
Online Publication Date Apr 10, 2009
Publication Date 2009-04
Deposit Date Aug 14, 2022
Journal Annals of Tourism Research
Print ISSN 0160-7383
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 36
Issue 2
Pages 316-334
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annals.2009.01.002
Keywords Social Tourism, low-income, social capital, family capital
Public URL http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/2896736