This book explores the challenges of applying disability theory and policy, including the social model of disability, to madness and distress. It brings together leading scholars and activists from Europe, North America, Australia and India, to explore the relationship between madness, distress and disability. Whether mental health problems should be viewed as disabilities is a pressing concern, especially since the inclusion of psychosocial disability in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This book will appeal to policy makers, practitioners, activists and academics.

Having gone through 30 years of development, the new edition of this highly-regarded classic is the most trusted companion for understanding and promoting the potential for social work with disabled people. It offers readers a clear introduction to the core issues of disability alongside discussion and assessment of the social worker's role. Written by an experienced and highly respected team of authors, the book reflects: - The latest updates, developments and policy changes - The broad range of areas needing to be understood for informed practice - Recent changes to the focus of social work education and practice - The Social Model of Disability, encouraging debate about its role in social work - Developments for independent living - The heightened importance of safeguarding issues, giving attention to the topical issue of disabilist hate crime Accessible to a broad readership and respected by disabled people themselves, this text is the foundation for effective practice.