Helen Buckley – författare

From Wooden Ploughs to Welfare examines the reserve system imposed by the Canadian government in the 1870s - a system, rooted in theories of racial difference, that stifled initiative, opportunity, and self-esteem. The 1960s saw the collapse of the reserve economy, until then sustained by casual wage work or trapping. The government''s answer was a welfare program which marked a new era of deeper dependency. Helen Buckley argues that later government programs have proven equally discouraging: schooling has improved but drop-out rates remain high, economic development remains a low priority, and large sums are spent on manpower courses that seldom lead to jobs. The many who sought a better life by moving to the city received no government assistance at all. Buckley argues that self-government is the only solution to the economic isolation and underdevelopment of native Canadians. She focuses on Status Indians in the Prairie provinces, but her analysis and conclusions are applicable to Status Indians in other regions.

Based on a qualitative study of child protection practices this book takes a detailed look at what professionals actually 'do', contrasting the relatively straightforward process illustrated in procedural guidance with the uncertainty of the 'real world' of child protection work. Having observed case discussions and child protection conferences and interviewed professionals involved in child protection work, Helen Buckley sets out to clarify the factors that influence decision making in this field.Exploring the practice frameworks and sense-making techniques employed by child care professionals she demonstrates the importance of the cultural, political and organisational context in which the work is carried out. The processing of reported child protection concerns is followed from the earliest stages of identification to assessment, conferencing and long-term monitoring. In addition, data from interviews with parents who have been involved in child protection investigations provides a vitally important perspective for professionals.Emphasising that practice is a dynamic process requiring constant reflection and review, this book looks beyond procedural guidelines to help professionals, academics and policy makers involved with child assessment and protection to gain a deeper understanding of their work.