Praise for the first edition:" A very sound introductory text" - "Journal of Public Health Medicine". "An excellent introduction" - "International Social Work". "Clear, concise, up-to-date and helpfully referenced" - Professor Ian Kendall, University of Portsmouth, "SPA News". "A comprehensive introduction to social policy...very readable and stimulating."- "Nursing Review". Praise for the second edition: "We made good use of the 1st edition but this 2nd edition offers ideal coverage of our new Social Policy module. I like the glossary, which new students found very useful, the contents page gives good detail, and the 'further reading' is helpfully annotated. The style is very accessible for students new to the discipline, whilst retaining a good level of academic discussion." - Peter Mounsey, Social Work Programme Leader, Burnley College. "A substantial introductory text. Excellent inclusion of employment policy, health /social care/ housing and environment. A most useful text for Level 2 undergraduates studying across policy issues." - Sheila Emmett, Sunderland University. The new edition of "Social Policy" 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 developments in the major fields of social welfare. It contains new chapters on employment policy and on the impact of devolution and the European Union. It also contains completely re-written chapters on social security and poverty, education, health, housing and environment, social care, and the history and principles of social policy. It offers 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 counseling, education, law and criminology.