Developing a Local Research Strategy (From Enquiries Into Community Probation Work, P 59-67, 1988, Bob Broad, ed. -- See NCJ-124123)

• NCJ Number: 124128
• Author(s): G Pearson
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: Cranfield Press
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This analysis of the role of research in probation work in Great Britain emphasizes the desirability of local research conducted by practitioners themselves and focusing on ways to identify and meet specific local needs.

Abstract

Social workers and other practitioners often regard research as a remote activity. However, viewing it as an analysis of existing data to gain a more localized understanding of social needs and work in a particular neighborhood is a more useful approach. This approach recognizes both the variations in social problems in different communities and the varying ways in which specific problems affect different community agencies. Conducting neighborhood research requires a map, counts of numbers and types of cases in particular neighborhoods, analysis of census statistics, and identification of local resources. This research can produce many benefits, including the replacement of misconceptions with accurate information, the assessment of community needs, and more effective decisions regarding where to locate services. Note and 11 references.