Social work in Northern Ireland: Conflict and change - Softcover

'...it makes a significant contribution to our knowledge of this compelling subject.' British Journal of Social Work "The authors provide for a very relevant and critically analysed overview of policy evolution, impact and transferability in Northern Ireland. This knowledge does fill a gap in academic research, and is invaluable for political analysis." Journal of Social Policy "Students will benefit from this text in terms of how it relates to the policy-driven agenda. It will also be useful for youth work students in terms of comparing two related professions." Tony Morgan, University of Ulster 'This is both an informative and a thoughtful book. Along with analysing the efforts to meet the challenges of social work in a violent neighbourhood, the authors offer constructive recommendations on social work policy and training at the end of each chapter along with insightful criticisms throughout.' British Journal of Social Work "The writing style is both academic and accessible, combining clear description with the promotion of good practice. The book should be of great value to both practitioners and academics in a variety of disciplines and locations." - British Journal of Community Justice "Professors Heenan and Birrell have undertaken a unique analysis of the key themes underpinning Social Work in N.Ireland. Their work heralds a new understanding of significant policy which has influenced service provision. A highly recommended core text." Mary McColgan, Professor of Social Work, School of Sociology and Applied Social Studies, University of Ulster "This valuable analysis of social work operating in a divided society within very different organisational structures has important implications for practice elsewhere." Jeremy Harbison, Chair, NI Social Care Council 2001-2010 '...the book is thorough, well organised and clearly written, and its detailed index helpful. I highly recommend it to researchers and policy makers not only in Ireland and England, but in other countries where social workers have to struggle with the consequences of social division and political violence.' Nehami Baum, Senior Lecturer, Bar Ilan University School of Social Work

Written in an accessible style, this book highlights the distinctive aspects of social work policy and practice in Northern Ireland. It covers the historical development of social work, explores the challenges that have arisen from delivering services both during and post conflict and addresses the new imperatives created after the devolution settlement. Exploring many major themes - including social exclusion, devolution and working across borders - the book demonstrates how Northern Ireland's experience can provide lessons for national and international theory and practice.