'Its strengths lie in affording an in-depth consideration of a topic from a number of different perspectives, and in enabling readers to reflect on their own viewpoint having engaged with diverse perspectives.' Michael Preston-Shoot, Professor of Social Work, University of Bedfordshire 'There [is] passion in the texts and ... I enjoyed the responses and could see they could be used as useful pedagogical tools, making students (and practitioners) aware of the debates.' Jo Finch, Senior Lecturer in Social Work, University of East London 'Students might buy 1 or 2 for dissertations or social policy modules.' Jo Finch, Senior Lecturer in Social Work, University of East London 'It's a useful [format] and one which is easily accessible.' Victoria Hart, Social Work Practitioner 'There is currently nothing like these on the market ... the outlined texts are likely to prove popular on social work courses.' Hugh McLaughlin, Professor of Social Work, Manchester Metropolitan University 'My first reaction was less than positive - the chapters appeared to be quite pessimistic and the chapter titles are provocative, i.e using terms like 'crisis'. It might be that the eventual chapters offer clear evidence of the 'problem' under discussion. As I read through the proposal the latter chapters did seem more interesting. I wondered how coherent each of the topics under discussion are - why were they chosen? What is the rationale for discussing these particular issues over others? It seems to me some interesting debates might be missing, not least social work with gay men and lesbians.' Jo Finch, Senior Lecturer in Social Work, University of East London; in response to these criticisms, the series editors acknowledge that terms such as "crisis" should be used sparingly and the need to incorporate a wide range of perspectives. Regarding who sets the agenda, 'clear evidence' and 'rationale' the series editors have agreed to adopt the standard reviewing schedule for each individual book at Palgrave, which will ensure that lead essays achieve the right balance and tone and that books as a whole cover all the appropriate bases.