Action-research in context: Revisiting the 1970s Benwell Community Development Project

Abstract

This article examines the action-research undertaken by Benwell Community Development Project in West Newcastle in the 1970s. Taking a triangulated participant observation approach, it starts by providing an overview of how research perspectives shaped the organization of community action, before examining this in areas such as housing, employment, and welfare rights and legal services. It situates this within the historical and political context of the time, and available action-research technologies. It concludes by examining the continuing relevance of the approach taken to community development practice today.