Diversity and Difference

Social Work is increasingly delivered in complex situations. Key to professional practice is developing a sensitive understanding of the issues of diversity and oppression.

The book will introduce you to social differences in relation to class, race, disability, gender and sexual orientation. It will offer guidance, tools and methods to promote attitudes and behaviours which enable us to live well together whilst respecting cultural, religious and ethnic differences. It also explains the essential skills expected in the professional standards such as the PCF.

Instead of providing a reductive 'how-to' guide to diversity issues, this book invites practitioners to develop a considered and analytical approach to diversity issues that are often complex, multi-faceted and contested - and to reflect on the issues involved.

The book features:

 Explanations of key terms such as anti-oppressive or anti-discriminatory practice
 An understanding of class assumptions and prejudice
 A look at attitudes to Roma people and religious fundamentalism and the challenges these pose to social work practice
 Coverage of minority groups such as the deafblind
 Discussion of issues of race in social work and avoiding stereotypes
 Summaries of core knowledge and skills for the social worker in each chapter
 Case studies featuring contemporary issues to provide lessons for social work

This is an essential book for all those interested in providing excellence in practice, whether students, newly qualified social workers or established professionals in social care.