ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts covered in the preceding chapters of this book. The book discusses the organisational environment of mental health social work, and seeks to emphasise some of the factors that might sustain us individually and collectively: clarity of purpose; applying the principles of relationship-based practices in organisations and service networks; an ethical commitment to social justice in the mental health field; and a commitment to the active improvement of services. It suggests the kinds of supervision and professional development that support the growth of competence. The book identifies all agencies have a responsibility to apply the fundamental principles of law and rights. It describes the dimensions of social exclusion that impact directly on people with mental illness. The book argues that while addressing inequality and disadvantage is challenging and complex, the pursuit of social justice remains an important principle that underpins much of social work activity in mental health.
