Step by step on a piece of string: an illustration of community work as a social health strategy

This article describes the development of a community work approach to the problem of isolation within a semi-rural and urban community. Reasons for adopting a community work emphasis within this community health service are explained. Two projects which illustrate ways in which the approach was put into practice are described and implications and issues for health workers are discussed using community participation, empowerment, and co-ordination of services as a basis for discussion.