Social Work and Social Policy: An Introduction (Student Social Work)

An understanding of social policy is vital for engaging practically with social work values, dealing with political and ethical questions about responsibility, liberty and our understanding of 'the good society'. This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to social policy, tailored to the needs of a social work audienceJonathan Dickens analyses current policies and policy themes relevant to social work, and locates them in the context of fundamental social policy principles and debates. He discusses the nature of social policy and its relationship to social work, and covers fundamental themes such as:Service user participation and involvementThe balance between individual, societal and state responsibility for people's needsHow best to target help on those who most 'deserve' itThe proper roles of the state, the private sector, voluntary organisations and the familyBoundaries between the state's powers and family autonomyThe meaning of 'inclusion' and the limits of acceptable difference.Activities for reflection and analysis, including case studies and thinking points, are included throughout and each chapter ends with suggestions for further reading.This text develops a dynamic and compelling framework for critical analysis of contemporary social policy and social work. It will be invaluable for students undertaking social work qualifying courses, all of whom are required to demonstrate an understanding of the social policy contexts of practice.Jonathan Dickens is the author of 'Social Work and Social Policy: An Introduction (Student Social Work)', published 2010 under ISBN 9780415454124 and ISBN 0415454123.