Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to provide an analysis of the mental health social work role, its contribution to social inclusion, and its ability to translate this into practice.
Design/methodology/approach: The paper considers national policy, research and theory to consider the nature of social work and the mental health system.
Findings: While social work is ideally placed to challenge the biomedical model and promote social inclusion, organisational and other failings would appear to seriously undermine its ability to do so.
Originality/value: The paper considers some important issues facing social work and mental health, and raises points for thought and discussion
Keywords: social work, social care, mental health, social inclusion, personalisation, recovery
Classification: Conceptual paper / Viewpoint