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Being a social worker means constantly learning and growing to better support the people you work with. Whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience, the right books can help you sharpen your skills and gain new insights. Here’s a list of five great reads that cover everything from communication and cultural awareness to self-care and practical tools for your day-to-day work. These books are packed with useful tips and ideas to help you make an even bigger difference in the lives of others.
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Being a dedicated social worker means pouring your heart and energy into supporting others, but it can also take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Social Work and Beyond is a practical guide designed to help you thrive in your career while avoiding burnout. This book offers valuable insights and tools to improve your work-life balance, stay motivated and explore new career possibilities. Inside, you’ll find strategies for reaching your professional goals without sacrificing your health, tips on maintaining balance while caring for vulnerable populations, and ideas for entrepreneurial paths that leverage your social work skills. Whether you’re looking to stay in the field or explore ways to expand your impact, this book equips you to channel your passion for helping others into a sustainable and fulfilling career.
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A New History of Social Work traces the 200-year evolution of social work, highlighting its mission to promote social justice and support individuals and families. From its 19th-century roots in poverty relief to specialised fields like hospital and psychiatric social work, the book examines key milestones, including women’s work with destitute mothers, wartime responses, tackling racism and adapting to a market-driven society. Blending individual cases with broader movements, it explores the ideologies, moral frameworks and societal forces that shaped the profession. This engaging history is an essential read for students and scholars seeking to understand the foundations and future of social work.
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Conversation Starters for Direct Work with Children and Young People is a practical guide for adults supporting children through challenging and traumatic experiences. It provides essential tools and strategies for initiating sensitive conversations on topics like domestic abuse, drug use, mental health, adoption, bereavement, family illness and court involvement. Co-authored by an expert in working with vulnerable children, the book combines professional insights with practical examples and activity ideas, empowering adults to approach difficult topics with confidence and compassion. This resource is an invaluable aid for anyone seeking to support children in processing and understanding life’s toughest challenges.
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Bloody Social Worker is Richard Wills’ raw and vivid account of his 32 years as a social worker, from the gritty streets of 'Madchester' to Oldham, interwoven with memories of his upbringing in Cumbria. Far from a dry policy book, it’s a deeply human story filled with humor, heartbreak and unforgettable characters. Wills shares the highs and lows of frontline work, recounting bizarre, moving, and hilarious moments—like refereeing disco-floor clashes or caring for ‘Salman Rushdie’s’ cat. Through his stories, he invites readers to see complex, often marginalised individuals with fresh eyes, challenging stereotypes and embracing humanity in all its messiness. Described as sharp, emotional, and unexpectedly funny, this memoir offers an engaging and thought-provoking look at the challenges and beauty of social work.
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Days in the Lives of Social Workers offers a unique glimpse into the diverse career paths within social work by sharing the experiences of 62 professionals in various settings. Through their firsthand stories, readers gain insight into the rewards and challenges of the field, making this book an essential guide for anyone interested in or already pursuing a career in social work. Now in its 5th edition, the book features updated content and new chapters exploring emerging areas like police social work, suicide prevention, anti-trafficking, the opioid crisis, and arts-based social work. Whether you’re a student, seasoned practitioner considering a career shift, or simply exploring the field, this engaging resource provides valuable lessons and inspiration from the front lines of social work.
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Being a dedicated social worker means pouring your heart and energy into supporting others, but it can also take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Social Work and Beyond is a practical guide designed to help you thrive in your career while avoiding burnout. This book offers valuable insights and tools to improve your work-life balance, stay motivated and explore new career possibilities. Inside, you’ll find strategies for reaching your professional goals without sacrificing your health, tips on maintaining balance while caring for vulnerable populations, and ideas for entrepreneurial paths that leverage your social work skills. Whether you’re looking to stay in the field or explore ways to expand your impact, this book equips you to channel your passion for helping others into a sustainable and fulfilling career.
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A New History of Social Work traces the 200-year evolution of social work, highlighting its mission to promote social justice and support individuals and families. From its 19th-century roots in poverty relief to specialised fields like hospital and psychiatric social work, the book examines key milestones, including women’s work with destitute mothers, wartime responses, tackling racism and adapting to a market-driven society. Blending individual cases with broader movements, it explores the ideologies, moral frameworks and societal forces that shaped the profession. This engaging history is an essential read for students and scholars seeking to understand the foundations and future of social work.
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Conversation Starters for Direct Work with Children and Young People is a practical guide for adults supporting children through challenging and traumatic experiences. It provides essential tools and strategies for initiating sensitive conversations on topics like domestic abuse, drug use, mental health, adoption, bereavement, family illness and court involvement. Co-authored by an expert in working with vulnerable children, the book combines professional insights with practical examples and activity ideas, empowering adults to approach difficult topics with confidence and compassion. This resource is an invaluable aid for anyone seeking to support children in processing and understanding life’s toughest challenges.
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Bloody Social Worker is Richard Wills’ raw and vivid account of his 32 years as a social worker, from the gritty streets of 'Madchester' to Oldham, interwoven with memories of his upbringing in Cumbria. Far from a dry policy book, it’s a deeply human story filled with humor, heartbreak and unforgettable characters. Wills shares the highs and lows of frontline work, recounting bizarre, moving, and hilarious moments—like refereeing disco-floor clashes or caring for ‘Salman Rushdie’s’ cat. Through his stories, he invites readers to see complex, often marginalised individuals with fresh eyes, challenging stereotypes and embracing humanity in all its messiness. Described as sharp, emotional, and unexpectedly funny, this memoir offers an engaging and thought-provoking look at the challenges and beauty of social work.
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Days in the Lives of Social Workers offers a unique glimpse into the diverse career paths within social work by sharing the experiences of 62 professionals in various settings. Through their firsthand stories, readers gain insight into the rewards and challenges of the field, making this book an essential guide for anyone interested in or already pursuing a career in social work. Now in its 5th edition, the book features updated content and new chapters exploring emerging areas like police social work, suicide prevention, anti-trafficking, the opioid crisis, and arts-based social work. Whether you’re a student, seasoned practitioner considering a career shift, or simply exploring the field, this engaging resource provides valuable lessons and inspiration from the front lines of social work.
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