This book explores the main areas of social work law, including children, mental health and community care. By investigating the meaning of law and some of its underlying value assumptions, it encourages practitioners to reflect on their actions and beliefs, helping them to avoid being a mere 'technician', and instead, become a competent practitioner. This new text supports busy social workers studying for Post-Qualifying Awards. Each chapter begins with an overview of the rationale for the teaching material provided and sets out clear learning objectives. Case studies, exercises and recommendations for further reading can be found throughout the book.

Rodger White was a senior lecturer in social work at Bournemouth University. He taught social work law for over 15 years following an extensive career as a social work practitioner.

Table of cases
Table of legislation
About the authors
National Occupational Standards
Foreword to the Post-Qualifying Social Work Practice series
Foreword
Introduction
Understanding law
Interpreting rules: a domestic and statutory example
The English legal system
Children¿s legislation: Principles of law and practice
Adoption
Youth justice
Mental health law: An outline
Community care law: An introduction
Decision-making: The legal framework (administrative law)
Discrimination and the law
Law and the policy on domestic violence
Housing (homelessness) legislation
The Human Rights Act 1998
Miscellaneous
Appendix
Recommended reading
References
Index