CYP7215 - Law and Social Policy for Social Work Practice

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

1 - Critically evaluate the legal and social policy landscape within which social work operates and apply legal knowledge to real-world social work scenarios.
2 - Critically analyse their responsibilities as social workers in upholding human rights and promoting equality.
3 - Critically evaluate and engage with evolving legal and policy developments.

Content:

This module is an integral part of the MA in Social Work programme, designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the legal and social policy landscapes that intersect with social work practice. The module encompasses a thorough exploration of legislation, contemporary developments, government directives, and procedural guidelines that underpin the field of social work.

Throughout the course, you will delve into various aspects of the law, government guidance, and social policies related to social work. The focus will be on two major areas: the Care Act 2014 and Children and Families legislation. You will gain insights into the legal aspects of working with adults who may lack capacity (Mental Capacity Act 2005) and those in need of safeguarding (Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023) This includes an examination of how the law applies to individuals with learning disability, mental health challenges, physical disabilities, and their dedicated caregivers.

The module also encompasses a thorough examination of Children and Families legislation. You will explore the nuances of supporting children in need and those requiring safeguarding. You will critically evaluate Childcare Law and its practical application, with a particular emphasis on looked after children, child protection, and children's rights. Additionally, topics such as adoption, fostering, and the challenges faced by children leaving care will be thoroughly examined.

The module goes beyond these core areas to include an exploration of the Criminal Justice and Youth Justice systems within the context of social work. It also addresses the implications of the Equality Act 2010 for ensuring equitable services. Human rights principles, a cornerstone of social work ethics, will be discussed in depth, emphasizing their relevance to practice.

To provide a broader perspective, you will engage in a comparative analysis of social policies from various countries. This exercise will help them appreciate diverse approaches to addressing social challenges and enrich their understanding of global social work practices.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The teaching and learning methods for this module are underpinned by programme strategy that aligns with Leeds Trinity University Learning, Teaching and Academic Experience Strategy (LTAE 2022-2026) in that it aims to transform the way we work co-creatively with students, how we connect them and our learning and teaching with the outside world and societal issues and support all our learners on a personalised, values-based and career-led journey through their studies. You will be taught in a variety of methods including simulated practice, problem-based learning using case studies, reflective practice workshops, flipped classrooms; traditional lectures; and participatory workshops which utilise co-creative exercises Additional online material such as discussions and online activities will be supported by a variety of media and resources, ranging from videos and selected textbooks and articles and placed on Moodle, Leeds Trinity University’s on-line learning platform.

The module will use a combination of learning and teaching methods using lectures, small group seminars and individual and group tutorials to support your academic and professional development. You will be expected to attend all scheduled sessions and prepare for these in advance by undertaking relevant research and background reading. Guest speakers will be used to develop an understanding of current social work practice. The practice of relational pedagogy and person-centred planning will be showcased by staff in their delivery style.

Formative assessment is employed to support your learning on the module, allowing you to reflect on feedback on your progress from your tutors and peers. Formative feedback takes a variety of forms such as reflective tasks and does not contribute to the final module mark. Further detail on the specific teaching and learning including how these have been developed in response to student feedback, can be found in the module handbook.

Lecture/Seminar
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: 30

Guided independent study
Hours: 130

Assessment:

Fact File

Module Coordinator - PRS_CODE=
Level - 7
Credit Value - 15
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 7PGS1W

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