Dr Darren Hill, Principal Lecturer in Social Work, Leeds Beckett University.Lorraine Agu, Head of Social Work, Leeds Beckett University.David Mercer, Course Director for Social Work, Leeds Beckett University.

Overall, if students were to purchase one book as a context to social work practice, I would recommend this one. In addition to key contemporary UK practice issues, it considers broader global issues. I feel this is an excellent book that needs to feature on the reading lists of a range of modules including any post qualifying modules. It encourages reflexivity and the application of knowledge and concepts.

• 1. The historical development of social work: making links from the past to the present2. The contemporary role of social work: working with communities and complexity3. Preparing for social work practice: Models of intervention for social work practice4. Working with diversity: understanding and locating individuals and communities5. Global social work: locating and understanding the impact of globalisation on social work6. Preparing for practice: from first placement to final placement