The development of problem-solving knowledge for social care practice

The continuing modernization of social care in the UK has placed a high premium on evidence. However, there is a lack of investment in social care research in general, and in practice-based research in particular. The paper argues that there is a need to make better connections between research and practice if there are to be substantial improvements in services. The implications of these improved links include more efficient translation of research into action, and more embedding of research within the range of literature that supports service development. The necessary increase in research can be achieved by building on the substantial, albeit piecemeal, achievements of social work research, and by enhancing the practice literacy of the academic workforce as well as the research literacy of the practice workforce. In the context of a new strategy for social work research in UK universities, this paper examines the obstacles to achieving a voice for social work research and how these obstacles are being addressed.