This report is based on an action research project which involved service users, managers, staff and trustees. It identifies enablers of and barriers to increased user involvement. It also describes emerging approaches and important themes. It will help practitioners, managers and trustees plot their own journeys towards increased user involvement. The report: proposes 'user-centred user involvement', distinguishing it from 'management-centred user involvement', as a tool for analysing whose interests are served; highlights critical factors that enable change, such as: leadership style, consistent commitment, building strong relationships and communication between decision makers and users; can be used to assess if the conditions for developing user-centred user involvement exist; can also be used for planning change. This report is aimed at managers, service users, trustees and consultants who are working to increase user involvement in their own organisations. It will also be useful to researchers as a contribution to knowledge and debates about user involvement.

'This is a timely and well crafted text which is to be commended, with strong chapters from knowledgeable and committed authors. A stimulating read and one which will be of considerable use to those with responsibility for leading and managing learning in social care and social work' - Keith Popple, Professor of Social Work, London South Bank University 'This is a welcome and timely book, which forecasts the growing need for workplace learning. I will be one of the first people to buy it' - Jan Fook, Professor of Social Work, University of Southampton This core textbook provides an authoritative overview of the leadership and management of learning in social care education and practice. Written in response to recent policy and continuing professional development frameworks, the book provides the underpinning knowledge for candidates following post-qualifying awards for social work in leadership, management and practice education Key features include: " reference to the relevant post-qualifying standards in social work at Higher Specialist and Advanced levels " an interprofessional approach " case studies, activities and points for reflection. Leadership and Management in Social Care will equip readers with the relevant knowledge and skills they need to improve the quality of social care services and their delivery. With an emphasis upon continuing professional development it will become essential reading for students following social work and social care qualifications for continuing professional development. Social care practitioners responsible for staff development and interested in progressing to management roles will also find the book invaluable. Trish Hafford-Letchfield is a senior lecturer at London South Bank University for social work, higher education and leadership and management courses. Kate Leonard is a senior lecturer at LSBU and freelance trainer, assessor and mentor. Nasa Begum has been Principal Advisor for Participation at SCIE since 2003 and is a researcher. Neil Chick is Organisational Learning Manager for a housing association and coach mentor.