Self-help Housing: an Evaluation of Outcomes

Abstract

A survey of participants in a self-help housing project serves as the basis for this exploration of attitudinal change. The self-help project, a model of its type, was acclaimed by its residents who expressed satisfaction with the housing and neighbourhoods, and their generally heightened satisfaction with life in general. Respondents' sense of powerlessness diminished with the gain of personal identity. Popular participation increased the power of neighbourhood organizations. The importance of fatalism as an external control declined. Self-help with related supportive services is seen as an effective means for upgrading the supply of low-cost housing and improving resident welfare.