Synopses & Reviews
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.
Review
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
Review
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
Review
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
Review
“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.”
Synopsis
Written in an accessible style, this book highlights the distinctive aspects of social work policy and practice in Northern Ireland.It will be essential reading for academics and students of social work and social policy in Northern Ireland and a valuable resource for practitioners and policy makers.
About the Author
Deirdre Heenan, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of Ulster and Derek Birrell, School of policy studies, University of Ulster.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Historical context
Sectarianism and social work;Violence and social work
The integration of health and social work
Social work and Community development
Cross-border social work
Poverty and social work
Devolution and social work
Conclusion