Abstract

In this innovative book, a revised English edition of an important Italian text, Fabio Folgheraiter presents a systematic introduction to networking and reflexive practice in social work. He draws on Italian experience and practice in community care and development to foster a deeper understanding of the relational core of social `problems' and `solutions', demonstrating an alternative approach to the current trend in positivistic evidence-based methods. The text explores how the interested parties in social care (users, carers, neighbours, volunteers, professional workers, managers, policy makers) can acquire a shared power in care planning and decision making. Folgheraiter demonstrates that when this networking and empowerment occurs, caring initiatives become truly social based and their efficacy increases.

This book provides the framework for the repositioning of social care practice in relation to the state and civil society. The model of practice proposed is an important step towards the development of networks that can effect change locally, nationally and globally.

This book is a useful contribution to current debates and offers helpful theoretical perspectives on the processes of social work relationships.
Professional Social Work
Fabio Folgheraiter is Professor of Social Work Methodology at the University of Trento, Italy, Professor at the Catholic University in Milan, Italy, and Honorary Professor at the University of Birmingham, UK. He is a widely published author in the field of international social work and the editor of the series Methods and Techniques of Social Work, including the Italian editions of more than 30 social work titles. He is also the director of the Italian journal Lavoro Sociale.
In making a contribution to the international social work literature this book reaffirms the importance to social work theory and practice of recognising, across our differences, common concerns with social change, social ideas and social movements.
From the Foreword by Professor Ann Davis
Folgheraiter's book is still timely: its targets surround us. It is positive, in that it offers an alternative to "service delivery". It is rooted in well-established social work values and in the history of social work ideas. Its approach is easily compatible with the essence of community care and good child care... If it keeps the flame of community social work alive for a little longer it will have achieved something worthwhile.
European Journal of Social Work