ABSTRACT
Within any helping relationship, differences are variously represented. The gender of the client, together with their ethnic background, age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation and whether they have any type of disability, are examples of the dimensions along which differences can be measured. In addition to differences brought by each client to every interview, practitioners also bring their own multifaceted identities, together with associated values, attitudes and beliefs that often originate from, and are grounded in, social differences. The impact of deeply held practitioner values, attitudes and beliefs that are at odds with those of their clients (e.g. views relating generally to the role of women in society and/or more specifically to abortion) may potentially — though not inevitably — have a negative impact on the helping relationship. How can these issues be addressed constructively in support and supervision? This chapter explores what a multicultural approach offers to personal advisers, youth support workers and their supervisors. Specifically, it examines what the approach comprises, considers why it is necessary, how it can be developed and some criticisms that have been made about the approach.
