Improving partnership working between health and social care agencies has long been a feature of government policy but has recently gained increased impetus as a result of New Labour's commitment to joined-up government. This book provides a detailed but accessible introduction to policy and practice at the interface between health and social care. Drawing on key research, government policies and real-life case studies, the book assists health and social care professionals to work more effectively together in order to improve services for users and carers. The health and social care divide: explains why partnerships are important and what helps or hinders partnership working; reviews the legal and policy framework, providing a chronological overview and placing current initiatives in their historical and social policy context; summarises existing research findings with regard to key health and social care policy debates; uses case studies to explore the implications of this research for health and social care practitioners; provides good practice guidance for both students and frontline practitioners. The book is designed as an introductory text for those working or training to work in a multi-agency environment. In particular, it will be of interest to social work, nursing, therapy and medical students, frontline practitioners and those undertaking post-qualification training courses.