This book, by one of the leading theorists of social work, tackles a subject of crucial importance to students and practitioners alike: how social workers can enable their clients to challenge and transcend the manifold oppressions that disempower them (whether through poverty, disability, mental illness, etc.). It moves from a discussion of social work's purpose and ambitions to an exposition of theory and, from there, to the practice arenas of working with individuals, in groups, within organisations, and within a wider social and political context.

Buy this book. Make it required reading for every incoming social work student. The best resource I ve ever found to help with the challenging task of radiating social justice theory into the heart of social work practice. Accessible, real, and encouraging, Doing Anti-Oppressive Practice shines the way forward for our entire profession. "

This book consists of 27 chapters developed from papers originally delivered at a recent conference at the University of Toronto on anti-oppressive practice in social work. Dr. Shera has gathered expert contributors to discuss, define, and analyse theories of social work practice, pedagogical issues, fieldwork practice, models of education of social work practitioners, and current critical issues. These selected conference papers lay the groundwork for anti-oppressive practice in a way that will generate discussion and inspire researchers and practitioners.

Praise for the new edition: "This revised text should be read by all practitioners in health and social care settings who supports people with complex needs and who aim to promote anti-oppressive and person-centred practice. A variety of activities is presented in each chapter to stimulate readers to reflect on the cases and concepts under discussion. This text represents a valuable companion for professionals involved in learning disability practice." Learning Disability Practice "This new edition proves to be a substantial updating of the 1995 edition. The coverage is analytical and clearly related to anti-oppressive practice. It is important to persuade students of the necessity of action to put their values into practice - this book is a real boon and should be required reading up and down the country." Mark Baldwin, University of Bath. In the new edition of this bestselling text, the authors challenge the notion that anti-oppressive practice has lost its potency or become commodified into a professional response to inequalities. Retaining a commitment to the principles and values of anti-oppressive practice, discussion about contemporary practice is guided by a critical understanding of personal values and the context of practice. Some key questions are explored: How is anti-oppressive practice relevant in contemporary practice? How can the law be used as an empowering tool? How can the law be used to develop and inform anti-oppressive practice? The second edition is substantially revised and updated to take account of policy and legislative changes, with a new chapter addressing critical practice in social work as well as additional activities, chapter summaries and further reading at the end of each chapter. The authors draw on their own experiences and those of practitioners, service users and carers to understand issues of power and oppression, demonstrating how the law can be used to inform the development of critical anti-oppressive practice. The book therefore points the way to practice that is both empowering to service users and ultimately liberating for practitioners. Anti-Oppressive Practice is an essential text for students, practitioners, lecturers, service users and carers.

Gerontological Social Work in Action introduces "anti-oppression gerontology" (AOG), a critical approach to social work with older adults, their families, and communities. AOG principles are applied to direct and indirect practice and a range of topics of relevance to social work practice in the context of a rapidly aging and increasingly diverse world. Weaving together stories from diverse older adults, theories, research, and practical tools, this unique textbook prompts social workers to think differently and push back against oppressive forces. It pays attention to issues, realities, and contexts that are largely absent in social work education and gerontological practice, including important developments in our understanding of age/ism; theories of aging and social work; sites and sectors of health and social care; managing risk and frailty; moral, ethical and legal questions about aging including medical assistance in dying; caregiving; dementia and citizenship; trauma; and much more. This textbook should be considered essential reading for social work students new to or seeking to specialize in aging, as well as those interested in the application of anti-oppressive principles to working with older adults and researching later life.

Anti-Oppressive Practice in Health and Social Care presents a distinctive holistic approach to developing anti-oppressive practice in a range of health and social care settings, and with a range of service users. Drawing on case studies and practice guidelines, the book proposes strategies which students and professionals can use to develop skills in cultural equality and anti-discrimination and apply them to their everyday practice. The book begins with an account of the nature of anti-oppressive practice and goes on to explore the core theories, concepts and strategies of anti-oppressive practice. Key features of the book include: " a positive preventative approach that sets it apart from existing texts in the field " invaluable practical guidance on how to develop and evaluate personal and organisational cultural practice " a number of helpful features, such as annotated case studies which illustrate best practice, cultural competence and common pitfalls. Anti-Oppressive Practice in Health and Social Care is an essential text for all health and social care undergraduates, on such courses as social work, health care, nursing and counselling. It will also be a useful reference tool for qualified practitioners who wish to reflect on their personal and organisational practice.