Edinburgh Napier University

  The demise of the coalmining industry has entailed an increased geographical separation of
individuals from workplaces, highlighting the importance of understanding the spatial dimension
of job search for those living in the coalfields. There has been an increasing interest among labour
market researchers on the role of place and social networks in influencing labour market behaviour. A
growing body of literature focuses on the importance of social networks in shaping people's attitudes,
behaviour, and decision makingöin particular, the links between people's social sphere and the
nature and extent of their participation in the labour market. We aim to examine the area effects of
social networks and how these affect labour market position. We will draw on material gathered
from a Joseph Rowntree Foundation funded project on the economic, social, and governance links
between coalfields and their neighbouring cities. Part of this research was composed of eighty-five
interviews carried out with unemployed job seekers across three contrasting coalfields (Lothian,
South Yorkshire, and the central Wales valleys). We will focus in particular on the issues of accessing
of South Wales jobs, knowledge and experience of the spatial labour market, and the role of social
networks in influencing job search and job knowledge.