Applying Research Evidence in Social Work Practice

This excellent book provides an incredibly useful introduction to and overview of key debates about evidence based and evidence informed practice in social work and numerous insights into the application of evidence to different areas of practice. It manages to critically analyse key concepts and research knowledge while remaining accessible and deeply relevant to practice and is a key text for students, practitioners, academics and policy makers.' - Harry Ferguson, Professor of Social Work, University of Nottingham, UK 'This new volume is a mature and sophisticated application of the model of evidence-based practice (EBP) to the field of social work. It provides a balanced, nuanced and constructive presentation of EBP and how it may be helpful to students and practitioners in a wide array of service arenas. It is most highly recommended.' - Bruce A. Thyer, Ph.D., LCSW, Professor and Former Dean, College of Social Work, Florida State University, USA 'It is imperative that social workers practice is evidence based and in turn informs evidence. Martin Webber's book is an important and valuable contribution to improving the quality and standards of practice and most importantly ensuring that social workers practice contributes to achieving the best outcomes for the people we serve.' - Lyn Romeo, Chief Social Worker for Adults, England, in the Department of Health

In social work education, there is a strong movement towards the application of evidence and research to practice. This book is an authoritative introduction to this field of social work enquiry; ranging from a critical overview of becoming an evidence-based practitioner, all the way to applying research in specific social work practice contexts.This key textbook explores how good social work practice draws upon relevant and current research to ensure that interventions are as effective as possible. Social workers are increasingly required to demonstrate their knowledge of the research and evidence that underpin the daily decisions they make and actions they take and it is therefore vital that they are not only up to date with the latest research, but that they have the tools and understanding to successfully apply this to their practice. Written by leading experts in the field, this text book provides a step-by-step guide to implementing research in to every day social work practice. This is essential reading for any one taking a research module on Social Work programmes, at undergraduate and postgraduate level, or practitioners wishing to advance their own practise and deliver the best possible service they can.