This report reviews evidence on mixed communities and reflects on recent developments in this area of research, to inform thinking in Scotland. It is intended as a quick evidence review as opposed to a systematic review, and was conducted during November 2010. The literature review examines:

• Definitions and meanings of mixed or balanced communities
• The principles or theory behind the objectives of mixing communities, i.e., the problems it is intended to address and why
• The available evidence on whether mixed communities ‘work’, i.e., whether the objectives are met in practice
• A limited examination of the costs – financial, economic and social – of mixing communities
• Potential alternatives to addressing the problems identified
• Policy implications of each element

The report includes two annexes. Annex 1 summarises the findings from reviews of empirical studies, while Annex 2 summarises the findings from primary studies and secondary data analyses.