Social Work: An Introduction To Contemporary Practice, 2nd edition

Social Work: An introduction to contemporary practice has quickly established itself as a leading and uniquely comprehensive introduction to the field. Essential knowledge and skills are examined with authority and depth, and key debates approached in an accessible, informative and engaging way. Underpinned by research and advice to make close illustrative links with practice, it stimulates interest and actively engages the reader.

Richly supported throughout with examples and real-life case scenarios, the text encourages the reader to adopt a critical and reflective approach. Furthermore, believing that social work exists to help people through complex and painful transitions in life, the authors set the relationship at the heart of social work practice.

This text is essential reading for social work students on undergraduate and postgraduate training programmes, newly qualified social workers and practitioners in a variety of settings

• Covers the five compulsory elements to degree-level qualification – human growth and development;
  - assessment, planning, intervention and review; - law for social workers;
  - communicating with people; - inter-professional working
• A range of in-text features – including reflective questions, summaries, case studies with questions, closer look boxes, professional tips, further reading and websites, and practical activities – encourage reflection, engagement and extension
• Chapters are directly linked to National Occupational Standards, to ensure students are learning from the most trusted source
• National variations in social work processes and laws are integrated within the text to ensure students are kept up to date with legal issues
• Companion website containing chapter-by-chapter links to further interactive, multimedia resources to encourage self-study.

·        Expanded Contemporary Challenges chapter outlines the major changes in social work policy and practice since the first edition - such as the achievements and enduring problems for childcare and the recommendations of the Social Work Task Force report – and looks ahead to likely future challenges.

·        New Social Work with Adults chapter outlines policy in the area, as well as focussing on key issues such as domestic violence, personalisation, safeguarding and capacity.

·        Extensive revision to the Social Work with Children and Families chapter to take account of major childcare events such as Baby Peter and the latest reports and initiatives on child protection

·        Includes new material on safeguarding, specialisation, service-user participation