Inequality and Social Work

Inequality is a major challenge for social workers, and this book provides critical insights into the skills and knowledge needed to understand and tackle it. Key topics include social inequalities, health and welfare inequalities, global inequalities, social policy, and intersectional social work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 23 October 2023
Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd

Inequality is a fundamental issue that permeates the realm of social work, particularly when it comes to engaging with marginalized, disadvantaged, and vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. As social workers prepare to embark on this challenging journey, it is essential to possess a critical mindset and acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to address and overcome inequality. This comprehensive book is meticulously crafted to aid in this endeavor, empowering social workers to delve into the complexities of inequality and develop effective strategies for providing meaningful assistance to those who require it the most.

The book begins by delving into the concept of inequality and its profound impact on society. It explores the various forms of inequality, including social, economic, political, and health-related inequalities, and highlights the ways in which they intersect and reinforce each other. Social workers must understand the root causes of inequality and the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to its persistence.

Next, the book delves into the role of social work in addressing inequality. It emphasizes the importance of social workers as agents of change, working to promote social justice, equity, and inclusion for all individuals and communities. Social workers must be equipped with the skills and knowledge to identify and challenge oppressive systems, advocate for policy changes, and provide support and empowerment to those who are marginalized and oppressed.

Social inequalities are a significant aspect of inequality that the book explores in depth. It examines the various factors that contribute to social inequalities, such as race, ethnicity, gender, class, sexuality, and disability. Social workers must be aware of these factors and their impact on individuals and communities, and must work to address them through advocacy, education, and empowerment.

Health and welfare inequalities are another critical topic addressed in the book. It highlights the disparities in health outcomes and access to healthcare services among different populations, including marginalized and disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities. Social workers must be equipped with the skills and knowledge to identify and address these inequalities, working to promote health equity and improve the overall well-being of those who are most in need.

Global inequalities are also a significant concern, as they transcend national boundaries and impact individuals and communities worldwide. The book explores the various factors that contribute to global inequalities, such as colonialism, globalization, and the uneven distribution of resources. Social workers must be aware of these factors and their impact on individuals and communities, and must work to promote global solidarity and social justice.

The role of social policy in addressing inequality is another important topic explored in the book. It emphasizes the importance of government policies and programs in promoting social justice, equity, and inclusion. Social workers must be knowledgeable about social policy and its impact on individuals and communities, and must work to advocate for policy changes that benefit marginalized and disadvantaged individuals and communities.

Intersectional social work, radical social work, and community-based approaches are three key approaches to addressing inequality that the book discusses in detail. Intersectional social work recognizes the interconnectedness of different forms of inequality and aims to address them holistically. Radical social work emphasizes the need to challenge oppressive systems and promote social change through direct action and advocacy. Community-based approaches focus on building strong relationships and partnerships with communities to address their specific needs and promote social change.

In conclusion, inequality lies at the heart of many of the challenges social workers will face as they prepare to work with marginalized, disadvantaged, and vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. This book is designed to help social workers think critically about the skills and knowledge they need to understand and tackle inequality, and provide meaningful help to those people most in need. By delving into the complexities of inequality, exploring the role of social work, and discussing key topics such as social inequalities, health and welfare inequalities, global inequalities, the role of social policy, intersectional social work, radical social work, and community-based approaches, this book offers a comprehensive and practical guide for social workers seeking to make a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 242 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529768794