The Politics of Child Protection

Nigel Parton has provided another of his insightful, well-researched and theoretically informed studies which will no doubt provide an indispensable roadmap for people striving to understand and work within the complexities of the child protection system' - Nick Frost, Professor of Social Work, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK 'A brilliant, thought provoking and very readable analysis of the politics of child protection in contemporary society. This book is essential reading for policy makers, professionals and all people currently working and training to work in children's services.' - Lorraine Radford, Professor of Social Policy and Social Work, University of Central Lancashire, UK 'An excellent analysis of the changes in the family-State relationship behind developments in child protection services, ending with some positive ideas for reform.' - Eileen Munro, Professor of Social Policy, London School of Economics, UK

Original, authoritative and up-to-date, The Politics of Child Protection is an important book for all students, practitioners and researchers interested in safeguarding and child protection.
From Every Child Matters and the Munro Review, to changing shifts in thinking from Coalition government; the child protection system has seen dramatic political and policy developments over recent years.

This book brings you a critical analysis of these developments from a leading writer and commentator. It begins by exploring the origins of present-day arrangements, locating English policy and practice in both a wider British and international context. It examines tragic cases such as 'Baby P' and Maria Colwell, considering their impact on public and professional attitudes and, in turn, the implications for the child protection system. Looking to the future of child protection, Nigel Parton considers the current state of the system and argues that we need to address wider social and political issues, including poverty, class and inequality.

Original, authoritative and up-to-date, The Politics of Child Protection is an important book for all students, practitioners and researchers interested in safeguarding and child protection.