The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the principles and practice of Social Policy in Ireland and how these relate to the discipline of Social Care. Students will learn about the provision of specific social services on the ground and the different economic, social and ideological factors which influence such provision.
Introduction to Social Policy
The philosophy and development of Social Policy in Ireland. ¬ Social policy theory ¬ Developments of social policy in Ireland. o Poor law and medical charities (1821-1900). o Social policy and education (1821-1900). o Liberal reforms (e.g. Children Act, Old Age Pension Act, National Insurance Act). o Beveridge Report. o Mother and Child Act. ¬ Ireland as a welfare state. o Policy formation (e.g. welfare, health, education, juvenile justice, childcare, elderly, disability). o Welfare models (e.g. including patterns, relevance to capitalism, ‘male-breadwinner’). o In comparison to other European states. Landmark reports.
Determinants of Social Policy
Socio-demographic factors. ¬ Economic factors. ¬ Social expenditure. ¬ Social indicators and social planning. ¬ Political and ideological factors. ¬ Interest and pressure groups. ¬ European Union influence as an increasing determinant of social policy.
Social Structures and Services
Delivery and organisation of welfare; Social security; Housing; Education; Health Services; Social work; Influence of Government budgeting on welfare delivery; Formation and current developments in social policy (e.g. ideology, legislation, EU influence interest groups, partnership structures information technology); Participation in decision making; Statutory and voluntary social services; Impact of professional bodiess; Accountability; National social partnerships; Farming organisations; Trade unions; Community/voluntary organisations.
Welfare, Personal and Social Services
Special groups: the elderly; community services; disability; travelling people; single parent families; refugees/asylum seekers. ¬ The roles of those involved in the care of specific client groups, including nurses, social workers, child care workers, home helps, voluntary workers. ¬ The role of the professional social carer in social policy formation. ¬ Implementation and evaluation of policy formation (e.g. regarding practice, effectiveness, development, accountability; Principles of non-discrimination.
Health Services
Historical development. ¬ Reorganisation and rationalisation of the Irish Health Services. ¬ Eligibility. ¬ Health service programmes. ¬ Community care. ¬ General hospitals. ¬ Child health services. ¬ Health and Social Justice; Home help services. Eligibility for fostering, adoption. ¬ The Public V Private debate; The importance of preventative medicine. ¬ Current policy issues
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |
| Formal Examination | 60 |