When we talk of social inclusion we must first understand what social exclusion is.

Social exclusion often refers  to the multiple and changing factors that result in people being excluded from the normal exchanges, practices and rights of a modern society.

Poverty is one of the most obvious factors, but social exclusion also refers to inadequate education, housing, health, social participation, employment and access to services.

A strategy therefore that would focus narrowly on poverty is restrictive.

A strategy developed around increasing social inclusion not only addresses poverty and its obvious economic consequences but also systemic barriers found in policies, programs and services across departments and challenges each to address them.