Social work is a challenging yet rewarding career. It involves dealing with a range of people and situations and requires knowledge, skill and a commitment to important professional values.

This well-written book, from one of social work's most highly respected authors, provides an informative and thought-provoking introduction to what it is to be a successful social worker.

Focusing on the challenges of achieving good practice, this new edition incorporates extensive updates. It reflects recent developments in social work within the context of contemporary society, law and policy. It also features a wide variety of practice examples and new 'Voice of Experience' quotes, giving readers an exciting insight into the job of today's practitioners.

Described as a 'must-have' by current students, this popular text continues to offer an excellent foundation for readers considering a career in social work; students in the early stages of training; and anyone wanting a better understanding of the social work role.

Preface to the Third Edition
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Making Sense of Social Work
The Legal and Policy Context
The Knowledge Base
The Skills Base
The Value Base
Achieving Good Practice
Facing the Challenge
Conclusion
Guide to Further Learning
Appendix: Internet Resources
References
Index

NEIL THOMPSON is a highly respected writer, teacher and adviser, with over 32 years’ experience in the people professions. He has held full or honorary professorships at four UK universities, and is now a sought-after trainer, consultant and conference speaker. He is the editor-in-chief of two online communities (Well-being Zone www.well-beingzone.com and Social Work Focus www.socialworkfocus.com). His personal website is at www.neilthompson.info.
 
He has several best-selling Palgrave Macmillan titles to his name and is the co-author of the recently published Social Work Companion in the Palgrave Companions series.