In a thought-provoking book, Pierson convincingly argues that social exclusion remains the sometimes ambivalent construct which connects the great majority of welfare service users who come to the attention of social services. Through intelligent case studies, astute theory and meticulous evidence Pierson highlights that social workers need to think hard about the impact which elevated levels of poverty, gross inequality and stigma have upon the too often constrained life chances of many people who turn to an increasingly fragmented social services. This book is a must-read for all students hoping against great odds to meaningfully support people within the seemingly post–Welfare State.

Professor Malcolm Carey, Head of Social Work, University of Chester, UK.

An excellent guide to social work practice and analysis: for students, educators and practitioners. It highlights the impact of poverty and forms of social exclusion on service users’ lives. It takes account of the harsh current context of social work. It shows, nevertheless, how social work that addresses inequality and engages cooperatively with service users, can contribute to fairer shares of social and material resources. Throughout, a realistic grasp of practice informs helpful case studies and exercises.

Eileen McLeod, Emeritus Associate Professor, University of Warwick, UK

John H. Pierson has taught at Staffordshire University for twenty years and is currently Visiting Lecturer in the Creative Communities Unit at Staffordshire University, UK. He is the author of Understanding Social Work: History and Context and has co-edited the Dictionary of Social Work, among other works.