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 Keys to Citizenship: A Guide to Getting Good Support for People with Learning Disabilities
 Simon Duffy, Paradigm
 ISBN: 0954306821,
 £9.99

 STAR RATING: 5/5

Social workers are governed by ethics and values and should advocate for their clients, writes Anne McCloskey. Where social workers are also care managers they are not absolved from this duty. It is these issues that are explored in this informative and well-structured guide.

It can be read by anyone seeking to explore social inclusion. Although directed mainly towards disabled readers, it offers insight into problems faced by any aspiring citizen in today's changing world.

As a social worker, I can identify with most of the views regarding self-determination and empowerment.

However, the subject of older people with learning difficulties remains unexplored. These are people who experienced the discrimination of institutional care and attitudes.

Many do not have the necessary family or friends to help them attain citizenship and survive the move from care to community. Some lack the skills required to survive this transition.

Given the current financial restrictions on many agencies, it remains to be seen whether the guidance in this book will lead people to their goal.


The messages in this book are valuable and should also be required reading for all providers.

It is an invaluable practical handbook writen in a clear manner and a must for anyone trying to improve the quality of practice in their agency.

Anne McCloskey is social work team manager, South and East Belfast Trust