What is social work? How is it carried out? What skills does it require? Despite its many challenges, social work remains a rewarding career that makes a difference. Understanding Social Work is a much-loved and highly acclaimed introduction to what is involved in the role, offering an excellent grounding in what the profession is all about. Neil Thompson provides a clear and helpful account of the knowledge, skills and values that underpin social work, makes clear what some of the main challenges of social work are and helps you rise to those challenges. Each engaging and succinct chapter supports the reader's learning and development with case studies, valuable advice from experienced practitioners, practical exercises and further reading suggestions. In this sixth edition, Thompson shares lessons from his expert witness work and offers renewed focus on the significance of loss and grief and the resurgence of interest in anti-racism in social work. It is an ideal starting point for people considering a career in social work, students beginning their social work journey and for experienced practitioners who want to revisit their roots. Accompanying online resources are available at bloomsburyonlineresources.com/the-effective-social-worker. These resources are designed to support teaching and learning when using this textbook and are available at no extra cost.

What is social work? How is it carried out? What skills does it require? Focusing on the challenges of achieving good practice, this popular textbook reflects on recent developments in social work within the context of contemporary society, law and policy. Getting to the heart of what this profession is all about, it offers an excellent foundation for anyone wanting a better understanding of the social work role. Providing readers with a springboard for further learning and development, this book: - Equips students to tackle the main topics encountered in social work studies, including the legal and policy framework, skills and values. - Reflects on the changing landscape of social work, including the impact of Covid and hybrid working, the changing role of state funding and privatisation of services, renewed focus on the significance of loss and grief, and the decolonisation of social work discourse and practice. - Includes practical exercises to prepare students for work in the field and 'Voice of Experience' features to help readers place learning in context. - Provides guidance on doing expert witness work from a leading name in the field of social work. Accompanying online resources are available at bloomsburyonlineresources.com/the-effective-social-worker. These resources are designed to support teaching and learning when using this textbook and are available at no extra cost.