The Uneven Geographies of Informal Economic Activities: a Case Study of Two British Cities

Abstract

This article explores the uneven geographies of informal economic activities. Drawing upon 511 interviews conducted in higher- and lower-income neighbourhoods of one affluent and one deprived city in Britain, we explore whether the capabilities of households to perform necessary work and household work practices vary across space. We reveal not only the ways in which household work capabilities and practices vary between areas, but also the complex spatial variations in the extent, character and reasons for households participating in self-provisioning, mutual aid and paid informal work. To conclude, we explore the implications of our findings both for understanding uneven development and for policy making.