Traditionally, human services policy has been made by people whose own lives are unaffected by their decisions. As a consequence, that policy often fails to meet the needs of service users. In this third edition of Connecting Policy to Practice in the Human Services, Brad McKenzie and Brian Wharf suggest that a more inclusive process will produce better results. Following a careful examination of current practices, they look at a number of alternative strategies, including shared decision-making, policy communities, and community governance. This edition has been updated throughout and features a new chapter presenting a case study analysis of policy resistance, new chapter summaries, end-of-chapter critical thinking questions, and an online glossary, making it the most current and engaging text available. Linking Canadian social welfare policy with social welfare practice, this indispensable resource encourages and facilitates participation in a process that has significant consequences for many lives.

Brad McKenzie is professor of social work at the University of Manitoba, where he teaches social policy and program evaluation. His most recent book is Connecting Policy to Practice in the Human Services (2010), with Brian Wharf. He has conducted research and published extensively on Aboriginal Child Welfare. His international work includes a leadership role in the development of a new social work program in Ukraine.

Brad McKenzie's profile page

The late Brian Wharf was Professor Emeritus, School of Social Work and Faculty of Human and Social Development, University of Victoria. During his career at the university he was Director, School of Social Work, Dean, Faculty of Human and Social Development, Professor in a multi- disciplinary graduate program and Acting Director, School of Public Administration. He was the author/editor of numerous books, including Connecting Policy and Practice in the Human Services with Brad McKenzie.

Brian Wharf's profile page