Policy Press

Social Policy

Theory and Practice

By Paul Spicker

Published

Mar 20, 2014

Page count

512 pages

Edition

3rd Edition

ISBN

978-1447316107

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Mar 20, 2014

Page count

512 pages

Edition

3rd Edition

ISBN

978-1447316091

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Mar 20, 2014

Page count

512 pages

Edition

3rd Edition

ISBN

978-1447316121

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Mar 20, 2014

Page count

512 pages

Edition

3rd Edition

ISBN

978-1447316114

Imprint

Policy Press
Social Policy

Social Policy: Theory and practice is a fully revised, updated and extended edition of a bestselling social policy textbook, extensively reworked and adapted to meet the needs of its international readership. The book lays out the architecture of social policy as a field of study, binding the discussion of theory to the understanding of social policy in practice. It aims to provide students and practitioners with a sense of the scope, range and purpose of the subject while developing critical awareness of problems, issues and common fallacies.

Written in an accessible and engaging style, it explains what social policy is and why it matters; looks at social policy in its social context; considers policy, the role of the state and the social services; explores issues in social administration and service delivery; and focuses on the methods and approaches of the subject. For practitioners, there are discussions of the techniques and approaches used to apply social policy in practice. For students, there are boxes raising issues and reviewing case studies, questions for discussion and a detailed glossary.

The book’s distinctive, path–breaking approach makes it invaluable for students studying social policy at a range levels, professionals and practitioners in the field of social policy.

"There is more food for thought here than in most introductory texts. It captures the very particular approach to the study of social issues that is British 'social policy', which is gaining ground internationally. It also gives really helpful advice to any student embarking on this rewarding journey." Howard Glennerster, Emeritus Professor of Social Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science

"Social Policy: Theory and practice comes highly recommended as a thorough and stimulating introduction to the field." Citizen's Income Trust

“Highly recommended book for professionals and students that care and are interested in people’s welfare, more than just measures.” Claudia Susana Gómez López, Universidad de Guanajuato

"Extremely useful textbook for all social policy and social science undergraduates. The links between theory, policy and practice are particularly relevant and informative." Linda Wilkinson, Hull College

"A highly informative, readable and authoritative introduction to the study of social issues ... It is thoroughly recommended for all those with an interest in the social policy field." Health and Social Care in the Community

"Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of social policy. This is not a usual textbook which just gives an overview of the subject, it invites and encourages readers to think and ask questions about studying and understanding social policy." Faiz Rasool, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology

Review of 1st edition

"The best book of its kind on the market ... brings together the institutional, theoretical and methodological aspects of the subject in an original and illuminating way." Robert Pinker, Emeritus Professor of Public Administration, London School of Economics and Political Science

Introduction: the nature of social policy;

Part 1: Social policy and society;

Welfare in society;

Inequalities;

Problems and responses;

Needs and welfare;

Indicators - quantifying social issues;

Part 2: Policy

Public policy;

Welfare states;

Principles and values;

Strategies for welfare;

Policy in practice;

Part 3: Social administration:The organisation and delivery of welfare;

Welfare sectors;

The organisation of public services;

Value for money;

Service delivery;

Receiving welfare;

The administrative process;

Part 4: The methods and approaches of social policy;

Research for policy;

Evidence and policy;

Social policy for practice.