Social work practice with children, young people and families is complex, highly skilled - and fascinating. Writing about social work increasingly acknowledges the complexities and uncertainties of practice but rarely features the voice of the social worker themselves. This book takes a different approach, that of Critical Best Practice: a constructive, realistic and strengths-based approach that takes as its starting point the telling and analysing of in depth stories about 'live' practice. The reader is encouraged to join the social work practitioner or manager as they engage with the everyday dilemmas and uncertainties of 21st century practice. Ten narratives, based round the themes of relationships, risk, and negotiation & problem solving provide varied opportunities for critical reflection and learning about social work in different contexts. Insights are offered into social work with children, from young babies to adolescents, and families with differing needs in different parts of the UK: England, Scotland and Wales.

Effective social work practice relies on good understanding of the law along with the skills to use this knowledge well. This essential book provides a wide-ranging thematic account of social work practice in Scotland, making critical links between concepts, the contexts of practice and first-hand experiences of Scottish social work law. The book covers important subjects such as: Service user and carer rights Legal and social work values Accountability Effective assessment Safeguarding, risk and protection Youth and adult criminal justice Partnership, participation and advocacy Delivery of personalised services Social Work and the Law in Scotland is core reading for all those undertaking academic study or professional practice within the field. It is also a key resource for anyone looking to update their knowledge on the nature and development of the ever-evolving legislative landscape of Scotland.