How can a social worker assess the risk that a sex offender poses to the community, or decide whether an older person with dementia should stay in his or her own home? How can professionals balance the rights and responsibilities of vulnerable people with those of their carers and of the rest of society? In this practical and accessible book, Mike Titterton offers an innovative model of risk work, arguing that a thoughtful risk taking approach in health and social care can lead to empowerment and greater independence for vulnerable individuals. He explores contemporary definitions and theories of risk, examining the dilemmas frequently faced by professionals working with older people, the homeless, people with physical or learning disabilities or mental illness, and proposes a systematic framework for risk assessment and management. He discusses a variety of approaches to risk, and identifies the essential skills needed by professionals, with an emphasis on developing creative approaches to practice. The book offers a wide range of case studies and examples of good practice, and provides a clear overview of the legislative framework. It is an invaluable resource for social work practitioners, trainers and policy makers.
Acknowledgements. Preface. Introduction. 1. What is Risk and Risk Taking? 2. Rights, Responsibilities and the Law. 3. Exploring Welfare Dilemmas. 4. Principles, Policies and Models. 5. Risk Assessment. 6. Risk Management. 7. Linking Risk Assessment and Management. 8. Training Professionals and Laypersons in Risk Taking. Conclusion. Appendix 1: Assessing Risk of Serious Harm in Health and Social Care Settings: The Examples of Child Protection and Sex Offenders. Appendix 2: Risk Assessment and Management Plan. Appendix 3: Sample Case Studies. Appendix 4. A Note on Health and Safety Issues. References. Index.
The author undertakes a thorough literature review, covers a range of topics from asking what is risk and risk-taking, to providing an overview of the pertinent areas of contemporary concern, including a legal perspective. Professional dilemmas are thoughtfully considered and several useful case studies are included, along with helpful signposts to relevant key roles from the social work degree.
