This original textbook provides an invaluable introduction to the required core knowledge, values and skills in social work today. Within the context of critical debate about knowledge, values and skills, a highly respected team of contributors focus their attention on three key areas: social work with children and families; community care and social work with adults; and probation and social work with offenders.

One of the most important and innovative features of the text is that it offers a practical tool for readers to identify and monitor competences. Knowledge, values and skills are integrated to produce a set of competences, the main components of which are then shown in practice as problem-solving devices against which readers can evaluate their own understanding of competent and effective practice.