Risk and Risk Taking in Health and Social Welfare

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.