Anti-Racist Practice in Social Work

Concerns about social justice and equality are woven into the history of social work and welfare, yet practitioners and service users continue to experience discrimination. While the obstacles to real equality are constantly changing, the need remains for social work practice that is inclusive, empowering and respectful of society's ethnic diversity. This essential text offers a critical exploration of the issues surrounding 'race' and racism within contemporary social work education and practice. It offers an overview of current legislation, policy and procedure, and considers the future of anti-racist practice within the multi-agency context. Using a range of exercises to encourage the reader to reflect on their personal attitudes and assumptions, the author: a- interrogates ideas of racial identity and self-identity, and demonstrates how 'race' can be seen as a social construct a- champions participative approaches and explores the role of the service user in ensuring equality within future services a- assesses the impact of globalization and internationalism on antiracist service delivery. Incorporating research data, theoretical and practice models, and a variety of learning resources, Anti-Racist Practice in Social Work is designed to equip the reader with the knowledge and skills to defend and promote anti-racist practice in the twenty-first century. This makes it essential reading for all students of social work and related disciplines, along with social work practitioners at every level.