This book describes the local and national politics, professional concerns and public interest that surrounded the inquiry following the death of Maria Colwell in 1973.

Ian Butler is Professor of Social Work at the University of Bath and a qualified social worker with considerable practice and managerial experience. His main research interest lies in the development of public policy and how it affects children, young people and their families. Mark Drakeford is Professor of Social Policy and Applied Social Sciences at the University of Wales, Cardiff. His research interests cover poverty and social policy, with particular emphasis on young people and criminal justice issues.