The contribution of ‘normalization’ to combating devaluation has been widely recognized, and this concept has become a major force in community care services in the 1980s and 1990s.

One of the most prominent thinkers in the field, Professor Wolf Wolfensberger, developed his version of normalization in the 1980s into the new concept of social role valorization in the 1980s into the new concept of social role valorization (SRV). His thinking developed social role valorization into a theory that fits into the realm of empirical scientific enquiry.

This book presents the first considered full-length account of this theory with specific reference the English context. It clearly demonstrates that the concept of social role valorization is directly relevant to individuals and caring services working with vulnerable groups. The author shows how it may be used to develop strategies for action that can inform the practice of individuals and organisations seeking to respond to a changing social and political climate.

The book is well referenced and written to be accessible across the boundaries of different specialisms. It will be essential reading for professionals, academics, carers, policymakers and others involved in any part of the spectrum of human services, and will serve as an excellent introduction for students entering the caring field.

Dr David Race lectures as the Centre for Learning Disability Studies, Stockport College of Further and Higher Education.