Jargon buster

This section will aim to provide a glossary to some of the jargon terms that are a feature of work in this area. If there are other terms you think need explained, email them to: jargon@pzaconsulting.com

Action research is an approach which seeks both action (or change) and research (or understanding) at the same time. It is usually both participative (as change is usually easier to achieve when those affected by the change are involved) and qualitative.

Employability is the combination of factors and processes which enable people to progress towards or get into employment, to stay in employment and to move on in the workplace.

Community Regeneration is action to bring about lasting improvements in the physical, economic, social and environmental nature of an area which has undergone decline.

Social enterprises are businesses with a social purpose. They have explicit social or environmental aims, aim to generate most of their income through selling goods or services, and do not distribute profits to private shareholders.

Social exclusion is a cycle of disadvantage which may include poverty, unemployment, poor skills, low incomes, poor housing, high crime environments, bad health and family breakdown.

Social justice is the state which occurs when all members of a society have the same basic rights, security, opportunities, obligations and benefits.

The “third sector” is the collective name given to organisations established for public benefit and not part of government or its agencies. Third sector organisations are non-profit driven, non-statutory, autonomous and the individuals who govern them do not get paid for doing so. The third sector includes community and voluntary organisations, mutuals, trades unions and co-operatives