This comprehensive textbook provides an engaging and accessible guide to working with young people in a range of social work settings. It places clear emphasis on the development of key skills, but doesn’t shy away from important theories and evidence. The book explains why taking a usercentred approach is important, and highlights ways in which this can be put into practice.

Chapter by chapter, the book introduces the reader to the challenges and potential of working with a range of groups, such as offenders, young people with disabilities, teenage parents, and young asylum seekers and refugees. The book explains clearly the current policies and organizational frameworks which shape social work practice. At the same time, it recognizes that effective social work practice is about much more than simply meeting guidelines, and gets to grips with the day-today realities of working with young people.

Throughout, case studies are used to encourage readers to reflect on the people and situations they might encounter. In addition, each chapter includes an easy-to-follow summary, questions and annotated suggestions for additional reading – all written with the aim of stimulating readers’ professional development.

Social Work with Young People will be essential reading for social work students at undergraduate, postgraduate and post-qualifying level. It will also appeal to anyone who cares about developing a social work practice agenda with young people which is rooted in the principles of social justice.

Roger Smith is Professor of Social Work Research at De Montfort University.