Kemshall Hazel Knihy

Providing a complete guide to good practice for those involved in risk assessment and management, this book is the first to bring together the key issues involved, and examine them in the context of wide range of social care settings. Using examples of practice with different client groups, the book addresses such questions as: how is risk defined in a particular work setting? how accurately can risk be predicted? what are the important features of risk? how do you balance the management of risks and the rights of individuals?With its strong emphasis on practice, the book examines the key issues and methods of risk measurement, predictability and management, drawing upon the experience of the contributors in a wide variety of social care settings...such as child protection, disability, work with older people, mental health, offenders, and drug addiction. It will be of use to practitioners, managers, trainers, policy makers and students.

This book offers social workers essential skills for assessing and managing risk in their daily practice. Through case studies and reflective exercises, it covers assessment, decision-making, and ethical issues while emphasizing practical tips for improving risk management. It also addresses the emotional challenges of the profession, making it vital for students and professionals alike.

Assessing and managing risk is a daily challenge for social workers. Working with risk can be anxiety provoking and demanding, requiring great skill and high levels of confidence. In these complex situations, social workers have to work hard to get the balance right. This innovative book focuses on the development and use of skills for work with risk. Using a range of case studies, examples and reflective exercises, the authors examine the key skills required to work effectively with risk. Various chapters focus on assessment skills, gathering and evaluation of information, decision-making challenges, and ethical issues. Recognising the difficulties presented in the context of busy statutory work, there is a strong focus on practical skills and tips for improving risk management plans. The book also pays careful attention to the emotional impact of working with risk, with a final chapter on the management of self in the challenging and sometimes distressing world of social work. Written in a reader-friendly, accessible style, the book will be essential reading for students and staff across a range of social work settings, including community care, adult services, child protection and mental health.