This book provides a practitioner's perspective on the challenges and developments of working in Child Care Social Work in the current context of organisational and social change. Drawing on the experience of social work practitioners who have undertaken the Post-Qualifying Child Care Specialist Award, the book shows how these challenges are being met in everyday practice, providing a forum to share their knowledge and experience with others and contribute to best practice. It will be of interest to social work practitioners and students and all those interested in the reality of current child care practice.

Jill has been a qualified social worker for over 20 years specialising in Child Care. Her experience includes residential and field social work, including child protection investigations. She managed a team of social workers and been lead officer for Child Protection within an Local Education Authority. Jill joined Bournemouth University in 2003 where, with colleagues, she designed and developed the PQ Child Care Award on behalf of the University.

Introduction
1. Child Development
The impact of early abuse and trauma on the developing infant brain
Child development and disability
Child observation
2. Ecological factors
Assessment issues for children with a disability
Working with unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and young people
3. Legislation and social policy
Child care law and policy - a human rights perspective
¿No legal place to stay¿ - issues for Gypsy and Traveller children
4. Evidence-based practice and managing the professional task
Service delivery to parents with learning disabilities - a critical appraisal
Managing and supporting young people with secually harmful behaviour
References
Index