Social Work with People with Learning Difficulties
- Paul Williams - University of Reading, UK
- Michelle Evans - London South Bank University, UK
Current practice in the field was driven by the government White Paper 'Valuing People' (2001) which declared some radical aims for services with people with learning difficulties. Now somewhat compromised by the local authority austerity measures, the goals set by 'Valuing People' are nevertheless still important. This third edition seeks to confirm and strenghten social work values and priciples so that the progress and successes achieved by 'Valuing People' can continue. Case studies and activities draw out the key points and reinforce learning. Summaries of contemporary research are included, as are suggestions for further reading and coverage of current government guidance and policy documents.
By examining the varied roles that a social worker might undertake in this field, the authors portray a positive picture of working with people with learning difficulties: the achievements and satisfaction, and the learning and understanding that can be gained. They also highlight the need for recognition of vulnerability, the risk of isolation, oppression and abuse, and the continuing political struggle to establish and protect the rights of the individual.
Paul Williams has over 40 years' experience of working with people with learning difficulties. He was a founder member of the organisation 'Values into Action' which campaigned for rights, inclusion and community-based services for people with learning difficulties. He is co-author of books on self-advocacy and anti-oppressive practice. A former lecturer in social work at the University of Reading, he is now retired.
Michelle Evans has 14 years of practice in all areas of sensory need, including Deaf/deafness, visual impairment and Deafblindness. She has a first class honours degree in social work and has worked as a care manager in adult services and a social worker in children's services. She has a particular interest in methods of social research which contribute to raising sensory awareness in social work/ care management. She lectures social work students at London South Bank University and develops and delivers sensory awareness training to practitioners and managers.
To help with specific reading for students on the course working with servcie users with learning disabilities
People with learning disabilities are still greatly misunderstood by many people. This book gives sensitive guidance on giving service users with learning disabilities the best opportunities to realise their potential. A brilliant book.
An excellent resource for learners who are working towards the specialist optional units.
This is a comprehensive account of social work practice in this area with some useful exercises for students.
good text that has a range of information to support students learning.
As is the case with other books in the Learning Matters series, this is a useful text as an introduction to this service user group. Students are encouraged to make links with practice and provided with resources for further detailed reading.
A fantastic resource highly recommended
This text allows students to understand the fundamentals of working with individuals with learning difficulties.
A fully revised and updated 3rd edition - ideal core introductory text of any undergraduate social work disability module.
Written in an accessible, incremental style which makes it easier for students to engage and explore the key themes emerging for policy and legislative frameworks as well as the role of SW and the importance of advocacy and empowerment.
I particularly liked chapter 6 re: safeguarding elements and chapter 8: practical guidance and tips on person - centred communication plus the useful glossary of web based resources.
For those entering the field of Social Work, this text gives a good insight into the challenges faced, opportunities available and empowering Individuals with learning difficulties.
