Written for those in the early stages of a UK social work degree or considering social work as a career, the second edition of this well-regarded book has been updated to reflect the major changes in social work in light of the UKs Children Act 2004 together with the new set of arrangements for planning, regulation, and quality assurance. The book gives an overview of the history of social work from the Middle Ages to its complex structure today and with the help of case studies, research summaries, and activities encourages readers to reflect on the skills and knowledge required by today's social worker.