Author Description

This popular accessible text brings together experts from the field to provide knowledge and insight into how multi-agency work can underpin effective practice with service users. This is very much an applied text with a strong emphasis on exploring the day to day issues and dilemmas. The reader is helped to apply knowledge and theory by examining use of case studies, considering service user perspectives and answering critical questions...Divided into three sections: the first section Working in partnership: From theory to practice contains four chapters covering what we understand by partnership, ethical issues arising from partnership work, the role and impact of technology, and the challenges posed by discrimination and social exclusion. In section two Partnership in action: Examples from practice eleven chapters explore a partnership approach in respect of: child protection, mental health, older people, substance misuse, gypsy travellers, domestic violence, children with behavioural problems, housing need, mentally disordered offenders, HIV/AIDS and drug using parents. The five chapters in the final section Reflecting on Partnerships include reflections from a service user, as well as explorations regarding the place of evaluation, key themes, issues and principles for best practice...The first edition of the book was a bestseller. Taking into account the changing nature and context of partnerships this second edition has been fully updated and includes new key chapters. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how to work in partnership effectively when dealing with key issues that cut across health, social care and criminal justice sectors..