Caring and Coping provides a clear and accessible explanation of the history, politics, management, funding and day-to-day work of the social services in Britain. Social Care now encompasses a wide range of increasingly specialised professions. Caring and Coping aims to improve the practitioner's (and the general public's) understanding not only of what these various professions do, but also what the legal, political, ethical and financial constraints are upon them. It succinctly addresses issues such as: * the terms and effects of the Children Act and the Community Care Act * the role of charities in the modern welfare state * the role of management * relationships with other agencies * and the place of social work within the community. Social services are so often portrayed in the media in a sensationalist way and this book counterbalances the hype by providing solid research and a more down-to-earth picture. It is an ideal introductory text for those training to be social workers.