case studies

Drinking in the UK: An exploration of trends

A key part of the Government’s alcohol harm reduction strategy is to monitor changes in drinking habits over time and to identify what factors are potentially contributing to the rising levels of consumption. Reviews research and highlights trends in alcohol consumption over the last 20 to 30 years. A key part of the Government’s alcohol harm reduction strategy is to monitor changes in drinking habits over time and to identify what factors are potentially contributing to the rising levels of consumption.

Commissioning services for children, young people and families : a study of the dynamics in six local authority areas (Research report no. DCSF-RR133)

Report of a research project in which 'audience insight' research with practitioners of children’s commissioning was carried out to establish an evidence base for the design, planning and delivery of a Commissioning Support Programme. Six local authority areas were used as case studies to gain a better understanding of the dynamics of commissioning, particularly those pertaining to leadership, partnership and locality working.

Living on the edge: enabling older owner occupiers with moderate learning disabilities to live independently

Report focusing on the plight of older people with mild to moderate learning disabilities living independently in their own homes. It notes that many reach crisis points which threaten their independence and argues that a service response model based on crisis support workers is the most effective way of preventing such crises occurring and recurring.

Introduction to law (English)

This learning object is suitable especially for an opening module, as it provides an orientation into the subject and will stimulate debate on tricky legal and ethical issues. Introduction to Law sets out to make users aware of: the importance and relevance of law; how interesting law can be; the many ways that law impacts upon our lives and work; the importance of Law to social work practice; and the connections between Law and social work values. 'Why Study Law' asks you to reflect upon how you see the law through a 10 question quiz.

Dying to belong: an in-depth review of street gangs in Britain

This report presents an overview of the landscape of gangs and gang culture in Britain. It attempts to analyse the nature and scale of gang culture in Britain; who is involved and what they are involved in; how Britain has reached this point; and what society can do to tackle it. The report also aims to formulate a clear unifying definition of a gang, distinguishing it from the everyday activity of young people on the street.

Working progress : how to reconnect young people and organisations

Paper looking at the problem of the increasing mismatch between employers expectations of young people and young people's expectations of and preparedness for employment. Drawing on the views and experiences of young people and employers it makes recommendations about what should be done to help young people survive and succeed in the workplaces of the future.