SWK-20012 - Module Specification
School of Medicine
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

This module will prepare students for practice with children and families with complex needs by developing students' understanding of the relationship between the family and the state and other organisations providing social work services. The module will enhance students' knowledge of the legal and policy framework underpinning practice with children in need and children at risk of harm. Students will also develop skills in assessment and risk management in a multi-agency context. Students will examine the ethical complexities involved in practice with children and families and the importance of child-centred practice. In addressing the above content, the module will also provide opportunities for students to reflect on contemporary practice issues and the evidence base for practice.

The aim of this module is to enable students to develop a critical understanding of children and families social work practice within a multi-agency context. The module will develop students' knowledge of the legal and policy framework and the theoretical, ethical and practice issues involved in social work with children and families.

Intended Learning Outcomes

analyse the nature of the role of the state (and other providers of social work services) in family life in the context of children and families social work: 2
analyse the significance of the relationship between social work practice, the nature of the legal authority and the application of legislation in practice: 2
discuss the impact upon children and their families of living in adverse circumstances: 1
analyse the concept of risk and the importance of assessing, monitoring and reviewing risk within an inter-professional and inter-agency context: 1
explore ethical dilemmas when working in children and families social work: 2

Study hours

Scheduled learning / teaching hours are as follows:
Lectures/workshops - 60 hours
Independent work, including directed study (40), preparation for workshops (60) and preparation of assessed work (140 hours) total of 240 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment