| Foreword |
| The problems
associated with social exclusion are deep-rooted and
complex. Complex problems require thoughtful solutions:
single-programme approaches are unlikely to be
successful. The long-term objective is to develop ways of
working which integrate programmes not just within
Government, but at all levels of action - right down to
local neighbourhoods and communities. This will require
agencies and organisations to share information on their
programmes, their objectives, and their understanding of
what works. As a first step towards this goal the
Government is publishing today this report on our
programme to promote inclusion in Scotland. |
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| Since coming
into office, the Government has set in train a
wide-ranging programme of action, encompassing action on
education, childcare, housing, employment, health, and
crime. As Minister for social inclusion in Scotland, it
has been my job to co-ordinate the efforts the
Ministerial team in The Scottish Office have made to
promote social inclusion, and to ensure that individual
programmes make an effective contribution to our
long-term, strategic approach. |
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| This report
explains the principles upon which that approach is
based, including an underlying commitment to the
empowerment of individuals and communities, and an
emphasis on prevention as the most effective and
sustainable way of tackling social exclusion in the long
term. The report also describes the four strands of our
action programme - promoting opportunities, tackling
barriers to inclusion, promoting inclusion among children
and young people, and building stronger communities - a
programme that is opening the door to a better Scotland. |
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JOHN SEWEL
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