Social work law (2nd ed)

'This book's articulate and accessible style will allow students to grasp the basics of social work law, and as such should be required reading for all student social workers whether under or post graduate.' - Dr. Ken McLaughlin, Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University. 'Social Work law strikes just the right balance between providing detailed information and discussing the practice and policy arena in which law must operate.' - Dr. Carole Smith, Senior Lecturer in Social Work at University of Manchester.

Especially written for the non-lawyer, "Social Work Law" provides a practical and clear guide to the legal framework and substantive law relating to social work.

The book gives equal weight of coverage to the law relating to children, families and vulnerable adults.

The author explores the dynamic relationship between the law and social work practice, and emphasises the crucial role of anti-discriminatory practice and the growing influence of the Human Rights Act 1998.

This book is particularly suitable for students following law courses in the undergraduate degree in Social Work and Masters courses in Social Work and related fields.Learning objectives at beginning of chapters help structure study.

Exercises and case studies highlight the practical application of the law and bring the subject 'to life'.

End of chapter summaries identify key points to be taken from each topic.

Further reading sections and website references encourage further exploration into the subject.

A glossary of legal terms aids understanding of legal terminology.

New to this edition are: new chapter on adoption, incorporating the Adoption and Children Act 2002; discussion of the Children Act 2004 and impact of the Every Child Matters agenda; new chapter on mental capacity, incorporating the Mental Capacity Act 2004; expanded coverage of human rights, education, and welfare and homelessness; and, fully revised and updated discussion of statute and caselaw developments across all areas.

Alison Brammer is a Solicitor and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Law, Keele University.

Her specialist interests are Family and Child Law, Social Work Law, Law and Vulnerable Adults, and Adult Protection.Alison has spoken at national and international conferences, is heavily involved in training work with Social Services Departments and is Legal Editor of the "Journal of Adult Protection".