Stage 2: Collecting & Assessing

2.3 STAGE 2: COLLECTING & ASSESSING

In efforts of gathering information to identify the potential effects of social cohesion on health and wellbeing, this stage advances to collect data that would better inform social cohesion in Beckton and the experiences of whose who reside in the area. However prior in doing so, the assessment criteria needed to be redefined to allow for more focused findings. By briefly addressing the assessment criteria of social cohesion and inclusive design from the HUDU rapid HIA tool (see appendix 2), was the question “Does the proposal connect with existing communities, ie layout and movement which avoids physical barriers and severance and land uses and spaces which encourage social interaction?” determined most effective in assessing the quality of social cohesion. This was nevertheless considered a vague assessment criterion, therefore; the presented questions have been raised to gain deeper insight.

1 - Does the area have big roads (A & B roads) between schools & homes which deter walkable neighbourhoods? 2 - Does the area consider access to green spaces between and near schools (compact/mixed-use space)? 3 - Does the area have pedestrianised streets to encourage safe interaction, connectivity, and permeability? 4 - Does the area encourage a sense of community? How is this expressed by the locals?

To answer these questions, primary research via a site visit within Beckton was carried out. To specifically address question four, a survey to measure social cohesion on a neighbourhood scale created by the organisation Social Life was filled out by 10 random Beckton locals during the site visit – this was developed from the Community Life Survey and the Understanding Society Survey, GLA. Secondary research was carried out via mapping a 15-Minute diameter circle in Beckton, by relevancy to a community school at the centre, and outlining physical elements relevant to the raised questions.