Synopses & Reviews
This innovative and timely book examines the nature and meaning of 'empowerment' in child welfare and protection, using the family group conference (FGC) approach to decision making as an example. In response to the growing clamour for 'evidence-based practice', the book addresses the central question of how the idea of empowerment can be operationalised and evaluated.One of the aims of FGCs is to empower children and their families by enabling them more effectively to participate in the decision-making process and by affording them greater control over the outcomes of that process. Empowering practice? critically assesses the available evidence on the empowerment potential of FGCs and examines the implications of the approach for professionals, their agencies and the children and families involved.Empowering practice? is essential reading for academics and professionals working in a wide range of health, education and social care areas.
Review
Empowering practice? is a timely and important book [which] analyses the concept of empowerment with particular reference to child welfare. It is also a measured and comprehensive review of the national and international literature on family group conferences. This balanced book will be of value to academics and practitioners alike. Christine Hallett
Review
This book provides a welcome intellectual analysis of empowerment. There is a comprehensive literature review, and the topic is located in its policy and practice context with a sound theoretical perspective ... it is to be hoped that it will find its way onto social work courses, and into post-qualification training ... the book should be helpful in advancing a number of very important debates in children and families social work. Community Care
Synopsis
This innovative and topical book examines the nature and meaning of 'empowerment' in the child welfare context using the family group conference (FGC) approach to decision making in child welfare and protection as an illustration. The authors evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the FGC approach so that current practice can be improved and lessons learned for other areas of work with children and families.
About the Author
Carol Lupton, Social Services Research and Information Unit, University of Portsmouth and Paul Nixon, Hampshire County Council