Research Handbook on Leadership in Social Work and Social Care

This comprehensive Research Handbook explores how the social work and social values of social justice, equality and human rights underpin leadership in the sector and beyond. Whilst this is a strength of the sector, realising such values raises a series of tensions and complexities within the contemporary context of social work and social care.

Bringing together over 60 renowned experts from Europe, North America and Australia, the Research Handbook provides key insights into the distinct aspects of leadership within social work and care. It examines how leadership can be strengthened at the professional, organizational and system levels and what enables equity and inclusion to be demonstrated within policy and practice. Chapters delve into leadership within different contexts, including public and community organisations, collaboration with other sectors, and the opportunity and challenge of new technologies. Several focus on the experiences of those who are often marginalised from leadership opportunities on the basis of indigeneity, race, gender and sexuality or having their own lived experience of social work and social care services. The Handbook concludes with recommendations of how leadership can be developed, supported and practiced to better reflect the underpinning values of the sector and inspire more human-centred practice.



This Research Handbook is an essential tool for students and academics in social work, social care and organisational leadership. Professional leaders within social work and social care organizations will also benefit from its practical insights and up-to-date research.