People and systems: reflections on the development of social work for children

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the aspects of social work for children, primarily in England.

Design/methodology/approach

It is based on reflections on research undertaken by the author prior to 1995 and after 2015.

Findings

The paper explores the interaction between people – effective leaders and practitioners – and systems.

Research limitations/implications

It is an opinion piece, and does not present findings from a single study.

Practical implications

It urges systems that do not restrict the capability of practitioners.

Social implications

The value of social work services at times of significant social disadvantage demands strong public policy attention.

Originality/value

The study draws on several research and case studies in over 20 English local authorities

Citation

Little, M. (2017), "People and systems: reflections on the development of social work for children", Journal of Children's Services, Vol. 12 No. 2-3, pp. 113-121. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCS-09-2017-0037