Publisher's Synopsis
Many homes owned by low income households are in a poor state of repair. This study examines the extent to which owners have repair work undertaken through membership of the expanding Local Exchange Training Systems (LETS). It is the first systematic study of the potential of such self-help schemes to expand into organised groups of people who exchange property repair and maintenance skills and services using a local currency. The findings and recommendations are drawn form a survey of current LETS directories, a detailed questionnaire sent out to members, and group discussions in eight locations within the UK. The authors suggest that government should recognise the potential of LETS to contribute to current programmes aims at reducing welfare dependency and developing skills and self-reliance. Uncommon currencies is essential reading for those involves in urban regeneration policy In government, local authorities and voluntary organisations. Members of LETS themselves will also find the report invaluable in describing methods of encouraging self-help, and targeting improvement efforts on those groups for whom DIY is not practicable.
