General Overview: This book from the United Kingdom (UK) provides a detailed examination of the relationships between domestic violence, substance abuse and child protection agencies, and the way in which these relationships impact on service provision.

Discussion: This research was commissioned by the UK Government in order to identify how children are affected by domestic violence and parental substance misuse, and how they can be protected. The study was conducted in six English local authorities, and involved an examination of policy, procedure and training documents, postal questionnaires, an examination of 357 social work case files and interviews with 17 families and professionals working with those families.

The book outlines the impact of domestic violence and substance misuse on children. It describes the extent to which services work together, identifies factors that support collaborative working, and explores what aspects of the services provided to families that parents find helpful. A final chapter identifies implications for policy and practice. Appendices include the aims and methodology of the study and participant family stories.