There is ample evidence that disabled children are less valued members of society than able-bodied children. Child welfare practitioners are increasingly looking at not only the child's impairment and suffering but also the child's needs in a wider context--to be included as an equal member of society. Laura Middleton's book aims to provide sound guidance for social workers, community carers, teachers and health visitors, and her book gives them a better understanding of the disabled child's experiences and needs. She covers such key themes as discrimination, bullying, appeasement, abuse, communication issues, family support, and children's rights. Methods for generating a better, more effective service for the child are fully explained and illustrated.

About the Author
Laura Middleton works for the Commission for Social Care Inspectorate and is a Visiting Fellow at the University of East Anglia.

Reviews
"This is a well-written and thought-provoking contribution to our understanding of the ways in which disabled children are treated and marginalised in our society. It should be read by all those who work with children, as well as those who have an interest in disability generally." (Adoption & Fostering)

"The strength of this book lies in its description of disabled children as active participants in society...This book makes a significant contribution to our knowledge about disabled children's lives." (Health and Social Care in the Community)

"The book makes for compulsive reading once begun and has a clarity of style which makes complex issues accessible. ...I would recommend the book to lecturers, practitioners and students within the social care fields and to disabled individuals, their carers and groups who are eager to identify with the political debate which informs their social exclusion" (Child & Family Social Work)

"Any book about disabled children that starts with the experience of disabled young people is doing something right." (Community Care)

"It is particularly useful in making practical suggestions for more inclusive provision and will be an invaluable text for all childcare professionals." (Aslib Book Guide)

"This excellent book is a courageous, cogent and challenging look at how to translate a social model of disability into action."

"[Middleton's] perspective is of tremendous importance for social work practice with children." (British Journal of Social Work)

Book Information
ISBN 9780632050550
Author Laua Middleton
Format Paperback
Page Count 180
Imprint Wiley-Blackwell
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 255g
Dimensions(mm) 236mm * 160mm * 13mm