Policy Press

Applying Strengths-Based Approaches in Social Work

Edited by Deanna Edwards and Kate Parkinson

Published

May 30, 2023

Page count

194 pages

ISBN

978-1447362722

Dimensions

244 x 170 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

May 30, 2023

Page count

194 pages

ISBN

978-1447362715

Dimensions

244 x 170 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

May 30, 2023

Page count

194 pages

ISBN

978-1447362739

Dimensions

240 x 172 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

May 30, 2023

Page count

194 pages

ISBN

978-1447362739

Dimensions

240 x 172 mm

Imprint

Policy Press
Applying Strengths-Based Approaches in Social Work

This textbook offers students and practitioners an accessible introduction to strengths-based approaches in Social Work and Social Care practice. Covering the theory and research in support of these approaches, and packed full of case studies, the book will allow readers to develop a critical understanding of how strengths-based approaches work, and how they can be successfully applied in order to improve outcomes for people with lived experience.

Covering the five main models of strengths-based practice, the text presents international research and evidence on the efficacy of each approach, enabling students and practitioners to apply the benefits in their own social work practice. The guide features the perspectives of people with lived experience throughout and includes the following key learning features:

• case studies of best practice;

• points for practice: succinct tips for practitioners and students on practice placement;

• further reading list and resources;

• glossary.

“This is a very well-timed book that explores a number of pertinent examples of strengths-based approaches in social work practice, and will be an excellent resource for social work academics and students, and newly qualified and experienced social workers.” Lee Sobo-Allen, Leeds Beckett University

“Offering welcome relief to the often-negative characterisations of people in social welfare systems, this book provides accessible ways to guard against judgemental, disempowering interactions and nurture relational, energising connections.” Gill Buck, University of Chester

Deanna Edwards is Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Salford and a Practice Educator.

Kate Parkinson is the Subject Leader for Health and Social Care at the University of Huddersfield.

1. An Introduction to Strengths-Based Approaches: Inclusive and Respectful Practice – Deanna Edwards and Kate Parkinson

2. Theoretical Context for the Strengths-Based Approach – Kate Parkinson and Deanna Edwards

3. Solution-Focused Practice – Guy Shennan

4. Family Group Conferences – Kate Parkinson, Deanna Edwards and Will Golden

5. Signs of Safety – Lauren Bailey and Steve Myers

6. Multisystemic Therapy – Simone Fox, Mhairi Fleming and Anne Edmondson

7. A Narrative Approach to Social Work – Michaela Rogers and Jennifer Cooper

8. Strengths-Based Approaches in Adult Social Care – Sarah Pollock and Alex Withers

9. Strengths-Based Approaches in Mental Health Services – Emily Weygang

10. People With Lived Experience of Strengths-Based Approaches – Deanna Edwards, Kate Parkinson and People With Lived Experience

11. Conclusion – Deanna Edwards and Kate Parkinson