Working with Loss, Death and Bereavement

A Guide for Social Workers

`This book makes a significant contribution to the literature. The author is to be commended for the huge amount of work he has put into this volume which deserves to be widely used' - Professor Bernard Moss, Staffordshire University

All social workers encounter complex and diverse forms of loss throughout their practice. Working with Loss, Death and Bereavement helps trainee and practitioners navigate these difficult situations by developing the skills and values necessary for effective and empowering practice.

Each chapter is grounded in social work theory and is illustrated by practice scenarios, exercises, suggestions for further study, and contemporary cultural examples from novels and films. The book explores:

• definitions and assessment of loss

• psychological aspects of loss and grief

• skills, methods and theories working with the individual

• families, support groups and communities

• avenues of support for social workers

• key themes of anti-discriminatory practice, evidence based practice and ethical awareness.

This invaluable skills-based book meets the training requirements for social workers and will be essential reading for students or practitioners wishing to reflect on and develop their own practice in working with loss, death and bereavement.

Jeremy Weinstein worked as a social worker prior to teaching at London South Bank University, where he is now a Visiting Fellow. Jeremy is an accredited trainer and gestalt psychotherapist with a small private practice offering therapy, supervision and consultation.