Social capital report provides ‘detailed, complex' picture of island
GUERNSEY is not adapting quickly enough to the evolving social, economic and environmental challenges it faces, according to the findings of a world-first report into the concept of social capital in the island.
The report, which was compiled by Australia-based social capital researcher Tristan Claridge, examines the networks, relationships, and norms within local business and the community at large, and highlights themes which, he said, could undermine the future prospects of the island if left unchecked.
He warned Guernsey was close to a ‘tipping point’ in terms of a significant cultural shift, and emphasised the impact directors and leaders could have in influencing how the island could best make use of its social capital.
‘Everyone can do it, but individuals only have a limited influence when compared with a collective effort,’ he said.
‘Leaders have more scope to make a larger impact.’
Local IoD chairman Glen Tonks said Mr Claridge’s report had prompted the institute to take action in key areas, including closer collaboration between businesses and helping directors embed social capital into their businesses’ strategies.
‘The report is a living document, a golden thread on how to develop our island,’ he said.
‘Ultimately it’s about how we can use social capital to make Guernsey more productive and build better quality directors.’
Mr Claridge said the report, published at last week’s Institute of Director’s convention, provided a ‘detailed, complex’ picture of the island.
He said it highlighted the uniqueness and strength of Guernsey’s identity, with geographical, historical and cultural elements over the last 50-70 years all playing an integral role.
But he said the ‘tight-knit’ nature of the local community and a tendency to complain often made the island feel claustrophobic, and a lack of future change could undermine social capital objectives and mean Guernsey was vulnerable to threats, including increasing inequality and growing mistrust.
As part of the research phase, Mr Claridge spent time in the island in this summer to conduct interviews with 27 people from a range of ages and demographics. A survey of more than 120 islanders followed.
