Social Work with People with Learning Difficulties

This book is part of the highly-successful Transforming Social Work Practice series and is written specifically to support students on the social work degree. Full of practical activities, case studies and opportunities for students to critically-reflect and explore theory and practice.

Current practice in the field is driven by the government White Paper 'Valuing People' (2001), which declared some radical aims for services with people with learning difficulties. This second edition provides an up-to-date overview of the progress and successes of this White Paper, while using case studies and activities to draw out the key points and to reinforce learning. It also provides summaries of contemporary research, suggestions for further reading and current government guidance and policy documents.

By examining the varied roles that a social worker might undertake in this field, the author portrays a positive picture of working with people with learning difficulties: the achievements and satisfaction, and the learning and understanding that can be gained. He also highlights the need for recognition of vulnerability, the risk of oppression and abuse, and the continuing political struggle to establish and protect the rights of the individual.