Exploring various aspects of social work from an anthropological perspective, this original book uses an ‘outsider’ position to develop a reflexive dialogue with social workers from England and elsewhere in Europe. Bell, an anthropologist, worked alongside social work educators and social workers for many years. She widens our insights into social work by offering thought-provoking examples suggesting how social work practitioners view their occupation and their practice, and how wider society views them. Blending research and personal reflection to critically examine social workers’ preoccupations and contributions to society, the author explores identities and definitions in social work, making this book refreshing reading for academics, researchers, students and practitioners.As perceptions of social work across Europe continue to evolve, this thought-provoking book takes a fresh look at a multi-faceted subject from an anthropological perspective. It considers social workers’ preoccupations, how they view society, and how, over time, society views them. Blending research and personal reflection, this book provides a stimulating analysis of what social work means today, both within and beyond the profession.