Conclusions

As you have worked through this case you will have made decisions about what action to take. Good practice requires that intervention is based on a decision-making framework. This framework recognises 4 key domains:-

  • the legal rules that inform your decision;
  • social work's ethical commitments;
  • recognition of the areas of enquiry or information-seeking that will be necessary to ensure a well-reasoned decision;
  • knowledge drawn from research, theory, practice experience and dialogue with experts by experience.

These four domains overlap. In addition to core powers and duties, the legal rules embed notions of partnership, respect, rights and anti-discriminatory practice, which are central elements of social work's ethical base. What experts by experience value are these core ethical commitments demonstrated through relationships, but equally they emphasise the importance of legal frameworks that promote their rights. Assessment frameworks, which provide structure to assessment and specify the aspects that must be considered in any given situation, also have the power of law.

To act without a systematic framework means that practitioners are more likely to practise dangerously. They may introduce subjective or idiosyncratic criteria, and be influenced by personal assumptions. They may allow cases to drift or be unduly influenced by agency role and resources.

To act within a decision-making framework acknowledges that practice cannot be risk free and involves a need to challenge organisational and personal value systems and perspectives on risk. A wide ranging enquiry is necessary, the conclusion of which can be used to argue authoritatively for a way forward that is informed by statute, policy and practice guidance, social work values and a sound knowledge base.