This book not only sets down a comprehensive frame of reference for dealing with social services from a political, sociological, psychological and educational point of view but also comprises empirical research on selected social services. The relationships between professionals and clients are discussed with regard to three key issues: communication, co-operation and responsiveness.

Actual and accessible, this book deals with the question, 'Who cares?' and consequently tackles the crucial question, 'How to take care?' in a new and inspiring way. Taking into account that both questions are salient, it is considered as a matter of course that the collected contributions not only come from different scientific disciplines, but also from various European countries.

They reflect different solutions to similar problems and offer promising opportunities for interdisciplinary and transnational learning.