Originally published in 1987, this book is based on material generated by the former Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) research project into development in community nursing since the 1974 reorganisation of the National Health Service in the UK. The community nursing staff involved comprised health visitors, district nurses and practice nurses. A wide range of issues which have enduring relevance today include staffing levels, education, health service priorities, government policies, changing professional roles and innovations in professional practice. The authors consider evaluative research undertaken to assess the pros and cons of developments.