In recent years there has been increasing concern about the protection from abuse of adults who receive social services or who are in residential or nursing home care. In 2001 social services departments were given lead responsibility for co-ordinating responses to allegations and situations of abuse. At the same time, there has been a drive towards multi-agency work. This text covers key issues in service provision for all vulnerable groups and in particular examines:

• contemporary policy
• relevant theory
• protection issues at all levels of interaction
• the ethical dilemmas and philosophical implications of protective action.

With case study examples and practical exercises throughout, Working with Vulnerable Adults provides a much needed handbook for those studying and working within this area.