Social exclusion is the term used to describe the way certain individuals or groups are denied full access to benefits taken for granted by the majority. They might be excluded because of their race, skin colour, gender, sexual orientation or for reason of their disabled status. Stereotyping and discrimination rob them of the opportunities which should be open to them.

Why is social inclusion important?
Social exclusion has an emotional cost. Those excluded have mixed feelings including depression, stress and shame. Sometimes these emotions turn to anger about the obstacles that are put in their path and that they aren’t able to participate fully in society nor lead a life of dignity. Ironically, feelings of anger against society and the need to take revenge can reinforce the prejudices that caused the problem in the first place.
Apart from the damage to the community ties which bind us, there’s also a financial cost. Many of those excluded face financial difficulties especially when they need money urgently. Although direct lenders in the UK are able to offer them a helping hand, this is only a short-term solution since the roots of the problem need to be tackled.
The financial cost is also …