ABSTRACT
Social Services and ethnicity now constitutes a substantial domain of research, practice and policy. This is because of the existence, well documented by a range of studies of persistent discrimination and marginalisation based on the colour of the skin in social work and social welfare. This chapter begins with a reflection on issues and debates around 'race', racism and culture. An appreciation of the articulations and impact of racial discrimination is important in understanding the lives of black and minority ethnic communities and their interaction with public services. In order to understand racial discrimination in the context of social services in general and social work in particular, one needs to take on board the historical significance of the immigration processes of black and minority ethnic people. The Race Relation Act 1976 contains many provisions that are directly relevant to social services managers in formulating their strategic thinking and planning in the delivery of service provision.
