Understanding Social Work: History and Context

Book Details:

• Author: John Pierson

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2012

• ISBN: 9788131605516

• Pages: 264

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.5 x 0.7 inches

About the Book

Understanding Social Work: History and Context offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the evolution of social work in Britain, tracing its journey from the industrial revolution to the complexities of modern practice. Designed for students and educators, this book brings to light forgotten debates, pioneering contributions, and key developments that have shaped the profession.

John Pierson adopts a thoughtful, student-friendly approach that highlights social work’s changing role in response to societal needs. The book includes:

• Timelines of key policy and practice milestones

• Discussion points for critical reflection

• First-hand testimonies and archival case records providing historical insight

• Documentary excerpts for contextual analysis of current practices

Each chapter builds on a specific period or theme—from charity movements, children’s welfare, and mental health work, to post-war social reforms and the shift toward personalized care. Whether it’s understanding early settlement work or grappling with today’s commissioning culture, readers gain both historical depth and practical relevance.

This illuminating guide empowers future social workers to grasp the foundations of their field and develop informed perspectives on its direction.

“This scholarly and engaging volume shows us where social work has come from, and so helps us understand and shape its future.”
— Suzy Braye, Professor of Social Work, University of Sussex, UK

“Richly documented... promises to support coming generations of social workers.”
— J. Lee Kreader, Columbia University, USA

Contents Overview:

1. Forerunners of Social Work

2. The Charity Organisation Society

3. Settlements and Guilds of Help

4. Social Work between the Wars

5. Working with ‘Mental Deficiency’

6. The Welfare of Children

7. Social Work Post-WWII to the Unified Services Model

8. Radical Voices and Challenges in the Field

9. Commissioning, Competences, and Social Care

10. Social Work with Children and Youth

11. From Poor Law to Personalization

12. Conclusion: Understanding the History of Social Work

About the Author:
John Pierson has taught at Staffordshire University for over two decades. He is widely recognized for his contributions to social policy and is the co-author of the Dictionary of Social Work.