This book is part of the highly successful Transforming Social Work Practice series and is written specifically to support students on the Social Work Degree. It is full of practical tips, case studies, activities and opportunities for students to critically reflect and explore theory and practice.<BR><BR>The very nature of social work assessment means it is not one easily outlined activity, but a continuous and at times complex process requiring much sensitivity and critical awareness. Social work students must not only demonstrate the interpersonal skills necessary for assessment, but also the theoretical knowledge and analytical processes involved.<BR><BR>This book explores assessment in social work by putting theory at the heart of the practice. Using practical activities such as case studies, reflection points and research summaries, it outlines different approaches to assessment and how these interact with the social work value base and the current theoretical models. Assessment with various service user groups is covered, including working with children and families, adults and those with mental health issues.<BR><BR>The most recent government policies such as Every Child Matters, person-centered practice and assessment within the personalisation agenda for adults are also explored and discussed. By looking at the power balance between the practitioner and the service user, emphasis is placed on the importance of respecting the humanity of those being assessed. This book is a practical and straightforward guide to an extremely complex, often challenging, yet vital aspect of social work practice.