Critically evaluate the relationship between applying the law and social work values in a child protection case study in Northern Ireland case study.

Social work is a value-based profession, and one of the core capabilities, at all career levels, is recognising, and where appropriate addressing, personal and professional values and prejudices. It is not uncommon, for the law to be seen as a critical component in developing provision and strengthening professional practice. According to the College of Social Work, in social work professional practice we work with some of the most disadvantaged and marginalised individuals, families and communities, often at the most difficult points in their lives. When parents do need help, they still want to be in control and indeed in the vast majority of families they should be it is important that a balance between intervention and assistance is maintained. (2009 NIRFPS) Since the late 1980’s there has been an increasing awareness of the impact of oppression and discrimination on clients and communities (Thompson, 2001). In 1997 Thompsons Theory called the PCS model recognises oppression and discrimination from a Personal, Cultural and Structural perspective. In the Code of Ethics of Social Work it is stated, respect for human rights, commitment to promoting social justice and professional integrity are at the core of social work practice throughout the world, but in actual practice of implementing the law there is a stark contrast of contradiction.
According to Siobhan Laird (2010) law can be a daunting subject because it cannot be fudged. It requires a comprehensive grasp of foundational concepts, an extensive knowledge of legislation and precision in its application. Moreover, practitioners can use knowledge of the law in ways which further oppress and disempower service-users, or exercise it in a manner which