Report writing for social workers / Jane Watt ; series editors: Steve Keen and Keith Brown.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 111-112) and index.

1. Introduction. About this book ; Why write this book? ; What is a report? ; Standards of literacy in social work -- 2. General considerations. The power of the written word ; Working in the human and personal world ; Working n the social and political world ; Working in the legal world ; Feelings, Power ; Respect -- 3. Getting started. First things ; Deadlines ; Organisation ; Keeping information secure ; Work space ; Materials ; Going through the paperwork ; The future -- 4. Planning and timetabling. The timetable ; Prioritising contracts ; Things to consider when planning appointments ; Tips for making appointments ; Recording -- 5. Interviews. Be prepared ; Arranging and office to be welcoming yet business-like ; Home interviews ; Recording ; Note-taking skills and tips l Introductions : yourself and your client ; Introduce the report too ; Signposting ; Conducting interviews ; Report file ; Difficult situations -- 6. Writing. You as writer ; Writing the report ; What to include ; Headings ; What to leave out ; Vocabulary ; Spelling ; Grammar tips ; Tone and style -- 7. Checking and proofreading. Personal checks ; Consultancy -- 8. Presentation. The final version ; Presenting yourself ; Location ; Observe and be confident ; Preparing clients ; Public speaking -- 9. And afterwards?. Results ; Practical organisation ; Change and the social work relationship ; Learning and professional development -- Afterword.

"This exciting new series of books from Learning Matters is aimed at busy social work practitioners who are looking to enhance their skills and extend their knowledge. Written from a practical point of view, they have clear links to both post-qualifying training including Continual Professional Development and the recommendations of the Social Work Reform Board. They are up-to-date, accessible and totally skills focused. Many newly-qualified social workers, as well as more experienced practitioners, feel apprehension at the prospect of writing formal reports. Writing may be a fundamental skill, but it is one that students and practitioners cannot afford to take for granted. Recent reviews undertaken by the Social Work Reform Board highlighted the need for clear and jargon-free reports, recording and written communication between professionals. This practical and accessible textbook presents the report writing process in a plan and straightforward way: from methods of collecting and presenting evidence, to drawing conclusions and writing up a final report. It is practice based, with clear links to practice outcomes and with examples drawn directly from social work."--Cover.