Making Child Protection Work

“This book is a remarkable feat and a gift to the profession – I was engrossed from the start; where else can a practitioner learn from hundreds – nay, thousands – of hours of observations, interviews and interactions with children, families and social workers in one sitting? Ferguson so skilfully humanises not only the people that social workers serve but social workers themselves, exploring strategies to work with, not against, vulnerability and complexity but also strength. One of its most groundbreaking contributions is through the exploration of the use of the embodied self in practice – something often entirely missing in social work education. This holistic approach draws out practice wisdom from head, heart and felt knowledge, bringing social work to life through the five senses. Read and be transformed.” Rebekah Pierre, author and care-experienced social work campaigner.

“A rich, insightful exploration of the realities of child protection – messy, complex, but always centred on children and relationships. Essential reading for students and practitioners alike.” David Wilkins, Professor of Social Work, Cardiff University

“A beautifully vivid, research-informed account of child protection practice, offering social workers guidance through the emotional, sensory and relational dilemmas of their everyday work with children and families.” Laura L. Cook, University of East Anglia.

“The importance of relationships in promoting positive and effective child protection is central to this excellent book. Informed by practice wisdom and underpinned by a lifetime of research, this is an excellent resource for both newly qualified and experienced professionals.” John Devaney, University of Edinburgh

“No one captures the soul and texture of child protection like Harry Ferguson. This landmark book feels, sees and hears the work – illuminating its intimacy, complexity and ethical depth. Deeply human and utterly essential.” Richard Devine, social worker and author of Messy Social Work

Harry Ferguson is Professor of Social Work at the University of Birmingham. He has taught and researched child protection for 35 years and is among the most read social work academics in the world.