Helping Abused Children and Their Families: Towards an Evidence-Based Practice Model

This book gives us fresh insights into the complex task of child protection and must be essential reading for all those engaged in this demanding work. Both practitioners and policy makers will find much to stimulate them here.' Robbie Gilligan, Professor of Social Work and Social Policy and Associate Director of the Children's Research Centre at Trinity College Dublin This book moves beyond investigation and risk assessment to decision making about the most effective ways of working with a family. Trotter provides a strong case for why practitioners should make these decisions evidence based. Only with such an approach is it going to be possible to increase the confidence of those working in child protection.' Professor Margaret Lynch, Editor, Child Abuse Review 1992-2003 Child protection is one of the most challenging and at times frustrating fields of practice in the human services. In Helping Abused Children and their Families Chris Trotter explains what works and what doesn't work in child protection. Drawing on a major study and current international research, he shows that rates of re-abuse and client and worker satisfaction can be improved with an evidence-based approach to intervention. He develops his research based practice model, including role clarification, problem solving, pro-social modelling and client-worker relationship skills. Using case studies, Trotter shows how this model can be used in a range of situations. Helping Abused Children and Their Families is an invaluable reference for child protection workers and for students. It will also appeal to readers interested in an evidence-based approach to work in child welfare and child protection.