Issues of power in social work practice in mental health services for people from Black and minority ethnic groups

Abstract

This article provides a critique of some theories of power when applied to social work practice within mental health services for people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. Current research into the experiences of black and minority ethnic mental health service users is analysed to demonstrate the centrality of power within social work practice. The article argues that social work should be viewed as a process of change that allows for the individuality of the service user, alongside the necessity of social workers acknowledging power differentials and taking responsibility for their own power in order to develop a continual critique of the empowerment process.