ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces research methods that will be useful for people as a social work practitioner. It begins with identifying and analysing community needs and strengths, one of the most common types of research undertaken by social workers. There are many types of needs and strengths assessments, and many things that they can do. Needs and strengths assessments must build ‘a comprehensive picture of conditions’. They should be conducted regularly and broadly based so that the information collected can be used to determine community and service priorities, to apply for funding from various sources and as a basis for evaluating services or interventions. A comprehensive needs and strengths assessment allows to work for change, secure in the knowledge that people are working with the community’s priorities and towards its sustainability.
