This book critically examines the effectiveness of the United Kingdom’s child and family social work structures and proposes the integration of a trauma-informed approach to improve current social work practice.

The authors argue that current government policies, theoretical frameworks and practices contribute to structural inefficiencies leaving vulnerable children and families without the support they so desperately need. Drawing on evidence-based research, this book advocates for a trauma-focused, family-centred approach, focusing on interventions that are framed around national and international guidelines to emphasise prevention and healing over crisis management.

This call-to-action book provides social workers, policymakers, caregivers and legal professionals with a roadmap towards reform and bridges the gap between public perception and professional practice to foster a trauma-informed approach.