Social Investment in theory and praxis: a ‘quiet revolution’ in innovative local services?

This final chapter draws together lessons from the ten thematic chapters of the book. The authors consider in particular the changing roles and responsibilities of different actors, and the heightened importance of the substantive economy. They also note some emerging evidence of ‘co-creation’, which implies profound changes in relationships between the state and the individual. Social justice rather than economic efficiency was typically the main local driver reported in the chapters. This street level view of Social Investment in practice is consistent with recent scholarly perspectives on it as a tool to enhance human capabilities and not only to increase productivity. The chapter concludes with reflections on the intersection of Social Investment with social innovation and some implications for decision makers and for front-line practitioners tasked with implementation.