Since the publication of the first edition of ''The Well-connected Community'' there has been a growing recognition in practice and policy of how networks contribute to the vitality of community life and civil society. Government policy has increasingly emphasized the need to involve communities in decision-making, while social capital is increasingly associated with health, low levels of crime, educational achievement and a strong 'sense of community'. The networking approach to community development set out in ''The Well-connected Community'' aims to strengthen and extend informal networks, support partnership working across boundaries and promote social cohesion. This book: provides a theoretical model of how networks contribute to community sustainability and empowerment; explores the concept of 'community' in relation to patterns of interaction, social identity and mutual influence; examines the benefits and limitations of networks; links academic analysis to recommendations for policy and practice; advocates a new model of community development that promotes networking as a skilled and strategic intervention; and, provides recommendations for good networking practice.This fully-updated second edition includes new ideas drawn from recent research on social capital and the policy context for community practice, reflecting the increasing emphasis on community engagement and empowerment. Recent case studies and examples have been added throughout. ''The Well-connected Community'' is aimed at practitioners, trainers, policy makers and managers who are working with communities or responsible for community participation strategies, both in the UK and internationally. Academics will also find it a useful source for teaching and research.