Participatory Approaches in Child and Family Social Work - by Clive Diaz & Sammi Fitz-Symonds & Tim Fisher

Book Synopsis

Child and family social work faces pressing challenges, from high care rates - particularly among marginalised communities - to limited family involvement in decision-making. How can social work evolve to better empower children and families?

Rooted in original empirical research, this edited volume argues for collaborative, relationship-based practice. It explores participatory approaches to working with both children and parents/caregivers, innovative advocacy strategies and emerging trends, including increasing use of digital platforms.

Essential reading for academics, policy makers and practitioners working in child welfare and social work, it provides evidence-based guidance for fostering inclusive, family-centred social care. Using interviews and observations, it amplifies the voices of those directly involved in the social care system while offering practical tools for creating more responsive, effective and ethical social work practices.

Review Quotes

"This thought-provoking book provides a compelling argument for the centrality of participatory practices with children, families and communities. Bringing together a range of contributors, models of practice are presented, systemic barriers discussed and fundamental values reaffirmed. This book is a must-read for students, practitioners and policy makers." Anna Gupta, Royal Holloway, University of London

"An essential contribution to participatory scholarship - bridging theory, practice and lived experience with clarity, compassion and conviction." Lisa Merkel-Holguin, University of Colorado Anschutz

About the Author

Clive Diaz is Professor of Social Work at Swansea University.

Sammi Fitz-Symonds is Research Associate in the School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University.

Tim Fisher is National Practice Lead at Kinship and founder of Relational Activism.