Social work in Northern Ireland: Conflict and change

Description

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.

Deirdre Heenan is a Professor of Social Policy at the University of Ulster. She has written extensively on ageing, disability and social capital. Derek Birrell is a Professor of Social Policy at the University of Ulster. He has written extensively on devolution, quangos and local government.

"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 "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