What is social work? How is it carried out? What skills does it require?Focusing on the challenges of achieving good practice, this popular textbook reflects on recent developments in social work within the context of contemporary society, law and policy. Getting to the heart of what this profession is all about, it offers an excellent foundation for anyone wanting a better understanding of the social work role.Providing readers with a springboard for further learning and development, this book:- Equips students to tackle the main topics encountered in social work studies, including the legal and policy framework, skills and values.- Reflects on the changing landscape of social work, including the impact of Covid and hybrid working, the changing role of state funding and privatisation of services, renewed focus on the significance of loss and grief, and the decolonisation of social work discourse and practice.- Includes practical exercises to prepare students for work in the field and 'Voice of Experience' features to help readers place learning in context.- Provides guidance on doing expert witness work from a leading name in the field of social work.Accompanying online resources are available at bloomsburyonlineresources.com/the-effective-social-worker. These resources are designed to support teaching and learning when using this textbook and are available at no extra cost.