Ian Mathews is Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Lincoln. He has been a qualified Social Worker since 1981 & is a founding member of Green-Templeton College, Oxford. He has substantial practice experience in health & social care including several years as an Approved Social Worker & Practice Teacher. He has a particular interest in mental health issues having been the professional lead for social care in the Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust prior to joining the university.

Introduction
PART ONE: PRE-PLACEMENT
Processes and Practicalities
Knowledge, Skills and Values
PART TWO: THE BEGINNING OF THE PLACEMENT
Processes and Practicalities
Knowledge, Skills and Values
PART THREE: THE MIDDLE OF THE PLACEMENT
Processes and Practicalities
Knowledge, Skills and Values
PART FOUR: THE END OF THE PLACEMENT
Processes and Practicalities
Knowledge, Skills and Values
Conclusion
Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations
Reference List

Embarking on a first practice placement can be an anxious experience for social work students. This textbook takes them step-by-step through the process, holding their hand through preparation for practice modules and during the course of the placement itself. Focusing on practicalities, knowledge, values and skills, the authors guide students through the challenges they may face.

Chapters include numerous real-life case examples which reflect a range of varying placement contexts including different settings, service-user groups, locations and areas of practice. The book will help students become confident on placement and lead to rich placement experiences which will benefit them throughout the rest of their degree and upon entry to the profession.

Your Social Work Practice Placements is essential reading for all social care students.