A family service unit's approach to working with child abuse

The staff of Brent Family Service Unit, a voluntary social work agency operating in London, has developed a range of broadly based services to bring about real changes in the behaviour of families who suffer child abuse. The paper argues that integrated teams of workers containing a variety of roles, experiences and approaches is essential in responding to families who experience varying constellations of interrelated problems. Some basic principles underlying the team's work are described. Contract work with individuals, families and groups embodies some of the above principles. This approach is invaluable in bringing both structure to the work process plus enabling specific observable change goals to be negotiated. The creative use of games, exercises and materials are used to bring about changes in behaviour and attitudes. Observations that can be made regarding the value and effectiveness of this approach include a reduction in the incidence and frequency of injuries and the social isolation of families. Fewer children are received into care. Parents learn to have much more realistic expectations of their children's behaviour.