PRACTICE: Social Work in Action

• The Topic

Creative approaches to social work based on the arts have been shown to push the boundaries of social work past the limits set by customary approaches when seeking to promote social justice, development and liberation. The arts represent a portal through which connections can be established and communication eased. The definitions of ‘arts’ and ‘creativity’ in this sense are broad and encompassing, and explore social justice, identity and empowerment in ways that are not just different from but also complementary to traditional practices that have been criticized as bureaucratic and managerialistic.

• Aims

This special edition will:

1. Identify and discuss the contribution and impact of art and creativity on the social work profession;
2. Provide examples of how artistic and creative activities have enhanced social work practice;
3. Comment on the sustainability of artistic and creative activities for the profession.

• Abstracts

Abstract proposals not exceeding 800 words in length should be sent by email no later than 30^th June 2023 to: [email protected]:

• Please use the email subject line “Abstract Submission for Special Edition” and ensure that you include your full name and email contact details.
• The inclusion of images is encouraged, and authors will need to ensure that appropriate permission to publish them is obtained (where necessary).
• Submitted abstracts will be considered for publication as:

1. original research articles reporting findings on the impact of innovative artistic and creative methods on social work practice;
2. theoretical articles providing a comprehensive summary of research on this topic, including a perspective on the current situation and thoughts on future directions;
3. case studies reporting on original practice projects that will stimulate further research in the field.

• Timeline

Selected authors will be informed by 14th July 2023. Prospective authors must be in a position to meet the following key deadlines if their abstract is accepted:

• Full drafts of all papers will be due at the latest by 30^th November 2023;
• Following review, draft papers will be returned to authors with a decision by 29^th February 2024;
• Final versions of manuscripts from authors must be submitted through ScholarOne by 30th April 2024 - select 'Art and Creativity in Social Work – A Catalyst for Change' when submitting.

Instructions for AuthorsSubmit an Article