The Human Rights Act and social work practice

The Human Rights Act 1998, by incorporating the European Convention on Human Rights into domestic law, has led to the creation of new duties upon public authorities to respect human rights. The effect of the Act is considered here and its implications in respect of social work practice are discussed. Reference is made to emerging case law in the field of mental health and child care. The relationship between human rights and anti-oppressive practice is also explored in an international context.