This is the second edition of a practice handbook which has proved popular with i those who work with children and families or are training to do so. The author is an acknowledged expert of international standing on child protection and family placement. She was a member of Department of Health advisory groups on the Guidance which accompanied the Children Act 1989 and has substantially amended this second edition to encompass the research which informed the new legislation and the changes in practice necessitated by it. Dr Thoburn writes with conviction about the importance of balancing the duty to safeguard the child"s welfare with the duty to enhance the ability of parents to fulfil their parental responsibilities. She endorses the partnership philosophy of the Children Act, and provides practical guidance on how this principle can be put into practice whether the child remains at home, lives in residential care, or moves to permanent foster or adoptive family. A particular strength of the book is the way in which research findings, case material, values, and practice wisdom are combined to provide a coherent base from which to practice. The book is clearly written; its contents and emphasis reflect the author"s experience of teaching social workers, lawyers and health professionals on qualifying and post-qualifying courses.