英文原文 TOURISM AND SOCIAL POLICY The Value of Social Tourism Lynn Minnaert University of Westminster, UK Robert Maitland University of Westminster, UK Graham Miller University of Surrey, UK Abstract: Social Tourism for low-e groups forms part of social policy in several countries of mainland Europe, but little research evidence of its benefits exists. This study empirically examines these benefits in terms of increases in social and family capital. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with participating families and their support workers, in a semi-longitudinal research design. Social Tourism was found to increase family capital in the short term, and social capital—in terms of works, related pro-active behavior and self-esteem—in the medium term. These increases can be seen as beneficial for the participants and to wider society. Consequently it is suggested that Social Tourism may be a cost-effective addition to social policy. Keywords: Social Tourism, low-e, social capital, family capital. INTRODUCTION Hunziker describes Social Tourism as ‘‘the relationships and phenomena in the field of tourism resulting from participation in travel by economically weak or otherwise disadvantaged elements in society’’ (1951:1). It passes a variety of different initiatives, commercial and mercial, governmental and private, that aim to offer holiday experiences to groups th
