Participatory Approaches in Child and Family Social Work: Creating Meaningful Relationships and Empowering Families

by Clive Diaz (Editor), Sammi Fitz-Symonds (Editor), Tim Fisher (Editor)

Overview

Rooted in original empirical research, this edited volume argues for collaborative, relationship-based practice. It explores participatory methods, innovative advocacy strategies and emerging trends, including digital platforms and post-COVID-19 developments.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781447373391
Publisher:	Policy Press
Publication date:	01/13/2026
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	240

About the Author

Clive Diaz is Research Associate in the School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University.

Sammi Fitz-Symonds is Research Assistant in the School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University.

Tim Fisher is Service Manager for the Camden London Borough Council.

Clive Diaz is a Lecturer in Social Work at Cardiff University.

Table of Contents

Part 1: Foundations and Contemporary Challenges

1. Introduction - Hayley Pert, Clive Diaz, Sammi Fitz-Symonds and Shane Powell

2. Understanding Variation and High Rates of Children in Care - Sophie Wood

3. Contemporary Challenges in Social Work Service Delivery to Children and Families - Liz Frost

4. Participation and Decision Making - Hayley Pert

Part 2: Advocacy and Family Participation

5. Family Drug and Alcohol Courts - David Westlake and Melissa Meindl

6. Strengthening Families Through Family Group Conferencing - Lorna Stabler, Tim Fisher and Kar Man Au

7. Parent Activism in Child Welfare in High Income Countries - David Tobis and Fae Rowley

8. Models of Parental Advocacy in Child and Family Social Work - Shane Powell, Clive Diaz, Tim Fisher, Kar Man Au and Jourdelle Bennett

9. Advocacy for Children in Care - Sammi Fitz-Symonds and Lorna Stabler

Part 3: Rights and Innovation

10. Children in Care Councils - Clive Diaz, Sammi Fitz-Symonds and Elen Newton

11. Digital Participation and Technology in Social Work - Sammi Fitz-Symonds and Shane Powell

12. Concluding Reflections - Clive Diaz and Tim Fisher