Praise for the first edition:
" A very sound introductory text... it lays out an entertaining mixture of easily digested theory mixed with illuminating case studies from particular social policy areas, such as housing, education, community care and social security."
- Journal of Public Health Medicine

"For student social workers and those requiring an update of social policy ideas and landmarks, this text provides an excellent introduction."
- International Social Work

"One of the attractions of this text for students is its clear, concise, up-to-date and helpfully referenced coverage of a range of policy issues, plus useful suggestions for further reading... It will certainly take its place ...in my first year reading list."
- Professor Ian Kendall, University of Portsmouth, SPA News.

"The book provides the novice with a comprehensive introduction to social policy. Critical thinking and reflection are encouraged throughout, making this book very readable and stimulating."
- Nursing Review

The new edition of Social Policy: An Introduction builds on the strengths of the highly respected first edition to offer a broad introduction to current developments in social policy and welfare. Comprehensive, readable and thought-provoking, this is now the standard introductory book on social policy in the United Kingdom.

The completely revised second edition has been expanded and updated to reflect latest develpments in the major fields of social welfare:
. New chapters on employment policy and on the impact of devolution and the European Union
. Completely re-written chapters on social security and poverty, education, health, housing and environment, social care, and the history and principles of social policy
. Discussion and analysis of major policy themes including power and decision-making, paying for welfare, social control and the role of the professions
. Study aids include glossary of key terms; each chapter includes key terms and concepts and further reading

Social Policy: An Introduction is essential reading for students beginning or building on their study of social policy or welfare. It can be used in undergraduate degree courses, postgraduate diplomas and Masters level, A-level, HND, HNC Certificate and Diploma studies. The book is an invaluable reference resource for practitioners, professionals of policy makers in fields including health, medicine and nursing, housing, social services and counselling, education, law and criminology.