There is ample evidence that disabled children are less valued members of society than able-bodied children. Child welfare practitioners are increasingly looking at not only the child's impairment and suffering but also the child's needs in a wider context--to be included as an equal member of society. Laura Middleton's book aims to provide sound guidance for social workers, community carers, teachers and health visitors, and her book gives them a better understanding of the disabled child's experiences and needs. She covers such key themes as discrimination, bullying, appeasement, abuse, communication issues, family support, and children's rights. Methods for generating a better, more effective service for the child are fully explained and illustrated.

Laura Middleton works for the Commission for Social Care Inspectorate and is a Visiting Fellow at the University of East Anglia.