Rachael Owens

All too often, human systems are criticised for failing those they are meant to serve. One example is the growing awareness of the overlooked needs of adolescents facing harm in their communities. This has highlighted a need for new systems that enable practice that is ethical, effective and grounded in supportive relationships. But how can this be achieved? Appealing to those interested in Contextual Safeguarding and beyond, this book shares ‘real-life’ lessons from research, covering: • Practical guidance and tools for changing systems using embedded methods; • Navigating complex relationships and emotions in organisational change; and • Using theory and concepts to support change. The book’s lively and creative style makes it accessible for researchers, students, professionals and anyone committed to system change in children’s social care.

Available open access under CC-BY-NC-ND licence. Based on the findings of the Innovate Project, a four year pan-UK study to identify the processes of innovation in care, this book asks: how can services be re-envisioned and transformed through innovation? The authors provide an overview of the project findings and offer insights into the core conditions necessary for socially just and practice-congruent social care innovation that responds to the distinctive, contemporary safeguarding concerns facing young people. Essential reading for anyone engaged in social care practice and innovation, as well as those undertaking continuing professional development, this book will aid the reader in developing a conceptual understanding of their experiences and support them in designing more informed responses to the challenges they face.