Helen Blakely is Research Associate at the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data, Cardiff University.

“This is an important book, providing a rarely heard perspective on women's lives and deindustrialisation in contemporary South Wales. Through detailed observations and local voices, we gain an understanding of life as it is lived on the edge. Here, where welfare, poverty and insecurity are ever present, we hear laughter and feel a sense of determination.” Huw Beynon, Cardiff University

• 1. Introduction2. The policy story3. The Valleys4. A space for activism 5. The girls6. The interview7. The working activists8. Solidarities9. Trajectories10. Conclusion

Helen Blakely is Research Associate at the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data, Cardiff University.

“This is an important book, providing a rarely heard perspective on women's lives and deindustrialisation in contemporary South Wales. Through detailed observations and local voices, we gain an understanding of life as it is lived on the edge. Here, where welfare, poverty and insecurity are ever present, we hear laughter and feel a sense of determination.” Huw Beynon, Cardiff University

• 1. Introduction2. The policy story3. The Valleys4. A space for activism 5. The girls6. The interview7. The working activists8. Solidarities9. Trajectories10. Conclusion

Helen Blakely is Research Associate at the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data, Cardiff University.

“This is an important book, providing a rarely heard perspective on women's lives and deindustrialisation in contemporary South Wales. Through detailed observations and local voices, we gain an understanding of life as it is lived on the edge. Here, where welfare, poverty and insecurity are ever present, we hear laughter and feel a sense of determination.” Huw Beynon, Cardiff University

• 1. Introduction2. The policy story3. The Valleys4. A space for activism 5. The girls6. The interview7. The working activists8. Solidarities9. Trajectories10. Conclusion