Now going into its fifth edition, Alan Twelvetrees' invaluable guide to the theory and practice of community work has been educating students and practitioners alike for over three decades. Covering topics such as work with community groups, the various dimensions of social action and project planning and how to engage effectively with public bodies, this is a truly comprehensive must-read for community workers, as well as anyone keen to undertake effective work in the community. Drawing on the author's wealth of experience, and benefiting from the grounded style of writing that has made the previous editions so popular, the book considers everyday community work situations to provide readers with a genuine feel for the realities of practice. This classic text is essential for anyone studying, working or just interested in community work, community regeneration and service planning. New to this Edition: - A classic highly regarded textbook, substantially updated to reflect new service needs and a tougher economic climate - Includes new pedagogic features including chapter overviews, 'practice focus' boxes, and 'putting it in to practice' features