Systemic Social Work Practice

ebook / ISBN-13: 9781805017813

Price: £25

ON SALE: 19th March 2026

Genre: Child Welfare / Social Welfare & Social Services / Social Work

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Paperback

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Bridging everyday social work with systemic theory, this book translates familiar ideas into purposeful, intentional and relational practice.

Systemic social work is an understanding that we do not work with problem people or problem families. Rather, the issues or needs that our clients present to us, originate and are maintained by the (multiple) systems that they live within. To understand these issues and what we need to do in response as practitioners, we first have to understand the complex functioning of the systems around them.

Designed for busy professionals, this book is packed with reflexive exercises and examples from direct practice in children’s and adult’s social work. You’ll be equipped with a guiding framework and tools to tackle the real-world challenges of modern statutory social work.

Reviews

Liz Bosanquet writes in an accessible style about complex ideas by simultaneously relating them to contemporary practise (sometimes her own). Because she doesn't shy away from discussing the entangled decisions social workers often have to make, readers shouldn't expect simple answers, because to apply these ideas requires sophisticated and nuanced thinking throughout the organisation. Approached in that spirit, this book can help recharge your batteries.
Professor David Shemmings OBE PhD, Emeritus Professor of Child Protection Research, University of Kent
Systemic practice is increasingly recognized to be a core element of good social work. This book provides an accessible and practical introduction to key systemic ideas and how they can be applied to the messy realities of everyday social work. It is full of great ideas and personal stories that bring alive the sometimes complex ideas of systemic practice, and would provide a great guide for social workers and students interested in practicing systemically.
Donald Forrester, Professor of Child and Family Social Work and author of Motivational Interviewing for Working with Children and Families
There are times when you look back at your career and wish you knew what you now know. With this overview of systemic social work and the referencing of mindful approaches, Bosanquet weaves pillars of best practice for newly qualified and experienced social workers alike.
Richard Rose, Director of Therapeutic Life Story Work International (TLSWi) and author of Communication Tools for Working with Traumatized Children and Teens
This timely and engaging text makes systemic ideas clear and compelling. Liz Bosanquet presents key concepts with depth and accessibility, offering practitioners practical tools to work thoughtfully and relationally. A compassionate guide for all wishing to embed systemic principles in everyday social work.
Richard Devine, Consultant Social Worker and author of Messy Social Work