This text presents an action-strategy model of social change that social workers can use to impact the policy process at the agency level to benefit clients.

Social workers must learn to advocate changes in policy at the agency level in order to benefit and empower consumers of social services. The action-strategy model will be useful for all social workers whether they are intervening at the agency level or at larger social systems such as regional or state levels.

Value issues, ethical considerations, and diversity permeate every aspect of policy making, from formulation of the initial idea to implementation of a new policy. This book discusses values and diversity inherent in the agency policy change process, as well as how these relate to professional social work values.