It is not always clear what the concept of partnership under the Children Act 1989 should mean. This volume deals with the concept of partnership from the perspectives of law, social work and social theory, representing an overview of the different forms that partnership may take in relations between the various individuals and agencies concerned with protecting children and promoting their welfare. The chapters are not merely descriptive in nature: several take an analytical and critical view. This text analyzes how the partnership principle is reflected in the law; examines partnership between agencies; explores partnership with children in the light of provisions in the Children Act 1989 which require consultation with children; looks at issues of partnership with parents and discusses child protection conferences and social work agreements. The book also reminds us that the notion of partnership can individualize issues and distract attention away from the need for resources and general policies to aid the poorest and most vulnerable families.