BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK

Scope & Guideline

Transforming Insights into Impactful Social Work

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0045-3102
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1971 to 2024
AbbreviationBRIT J SOC WORK / Br. J. Soc. Work
Frequency8 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressGREAT CLARENDON ST, OXFORD OX2 6DP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The British Journal of Social Work focuses on advancing knowledge and practice in social work through a diverse range of research topics, methodologies, and interdisciplinary approaches.
  1. Social Work Practice and Policy:
    The journal emphasizes the relationship between social work practice and policy, exploring how policies affect social work interventions and outcomes, particularly in areas like child welfare, mental health, and community services.
  2. Cultural Competency and Diversity:
    A significant focus is placed on cultural competency in social work, addressing the needs of diverse populations, including ethnic minorities, refugees, and marginalized communities.
  3. Research Methodologies in Social Work:
    The journal showcases various research methodologies including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice in social work.
  4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    Articles often highlight the importance of collaboration across disciplines, integrating insights from psychology, sociology, law, and public health to enrich social work practice.
  5. Education and Training in Social Work:
    The journal contributes to the discourse on social work education, exploring pedagogical approaches, curriculum development, and the training of future social workers.
  6. Impact of Social Issues on Practice:
    Research frequently examines the impact of broader social issues such as poverty, inequality, and trauma on social work practice, advocating for responsive and informed interventions.
The British Journal of Social Work is currently witnessing a surge in interest in several trending themes that reflect the evolving landscape of social work practice and research.
  1. Trauma-Informed Care:
    There is a growing emphasis on trauma-informed care, with numerous studies exploring its application across various social work contexts, highlighting the importance of understanding trauma's impact on clients.
  2. Digital and Remote Social Work:
    The journal is increasingly publishing research on digital practices in social work, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the need for innovative approaches to service delivery.
  3. Social Justice and Advocacy:
    There is a heightened focus on social justice issues, with articles addressing advocacy strategies for marginalized groups, emphasizing the role of social workers as agents of change.
  4. Collaborative and Co-Produced Research:
    Emerging themes include collaborative research methodologies that involve service users and communities, promoting participatory approaches to social work practice.
  5. Mental Health and Well-Being:
    Research exploring mental health, burnout, and resilience among social workers and service users is trending, particularly in the context of the pandemic's impact on mental health services.
  6. Intersectionality in Social Work:
    An increasing number of publications are examining intersectionality, exploring how overlapping identities affect individuals' experiences and access to social work services.

Declining or Waning

While the British Journal of Social Work has consistently addressed critical themes in social work, certain areas have seen a decline in focus over recent years, reflecting shifts in societal needs and research priorities.
  1. Traditional Models of Social Work:
    There is a noticeable decline in articles focusing solely on traditional social work models, as the field increasingly embraces innovative and integrative approaches that reflect contemporary challenges.
  2. Overly Theoretical Discussions:
    Papers that are heavily theoretical without practical application have become less frequent, as practitioners seek more actionable insights and evidence-based practices.
  3. Focus on Individualistic Interventions:
    Research centered on individualistic interventions is waning, with a shift towards understanding systemic issues and community-based approaches that address collective needs.
  4. Historical Contexts of Social Work:
    While historical analyses are still relevant, there is a diminishing emphasis on purely historical perspectives in favor of current practice and future-oriented research.

Similar Journals

SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE

Enhancing Mental Health Support via Social Work Practices
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0098-1389Frequency: 10 issues/year

SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE is a premier peer-reviewed journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, focusing on the dynamic intersection of social work practices and health care systems. With an impressive track record spanning from 1975 to 2024, this journal plays a pivotal role in advancing the scholarship and practice of social work within medical settings. It is recognized for its strong impact in the field, reflected in its commendable positioning in multiple categories, achieving Q1 status in Community and Home Care and Q2 rankings in both Psychiatry and Mental Health and Social Work. Researchers and professionals will find valuable insights and current trends that address crucial issues such as mental health support, community care strategies, and health policy implications, thereby enhancing their understanding and effectiveness in the field. While currently not offering open access options, the rigorous standards of this publication ensure that each contribution is a reliable resource for advancing knowledge and practice. Join a global community of scholars dedicated to improving the integration of social work in health care settings, and contribute to this vital discourse.

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH

Fostering scholarly debate in social sciences.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0148-8376Frequency: 6 issues/year

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading platform for disseminating cutting-edge research in the fields of social sciences, social work, and sociology. With a history spanning from 1978 to 2024, this journal serves as a vital resource for academics, practitioners, and students seeking to explore the complex dynamics of social services and their impact on communities. The journal holds a commendable reputation, ranking in the second quartile (Q2) in Social Sciences and Sociology and Political Science, and third quartile (Q3) in Social Work, reflecting its significant influence as evidenced by its percentile rankings in Scopus. While the journal does not offer open access, it is widely recognized for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to advancing knowledge in social service practice and policy. As the landscape of social issues continues to evolve, JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH remains an essential conduit for innovative insights and empirical findings, fostering informed decision-making and scholarly debate.

Affilia-Feminist Inquiry in Social Work

Challenging Norms, Inspiring Change.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0886-1099Frequency: 4 issues/year

Affilia - Feminist Inquiry in Social Work, published by SAGE Publications Inc, stands as a critical scholarly platform dedicated to advancing feminist perspectives and social justice within the realm of social work. Since its inception in 1986, this prestigious journal has contributed significantly to the fields of Gender Studies, Social Sciences, and Social Work, consistently earning a Q1 ranking in these categories as of 2023. With a commendable Scopus ranking placing it among the top tiers of its field—ranked 28th in Gender Studies and 81st in the broader Social Sciences—the journal aims to foster an engaging discourse around the intersection of gender, social inequalities, and community practices. Although it does not operate under an Open Access model, its insights are invaluable to researchers, professionals, and students eager to explore and contribute to feminist scholarship and evidence-based practices in social work. As we approach its convergence period concluding in 2024, Affilia continues to challenge existing paradigms and empower voices within social work, making it an essential resource for those committed to progressive change.

HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK

Enhancing understanding through rigorous research and discourse.
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESS INCISSN: 0360-7283Frequency: 4 issues/year

HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK is a prestigious academic journal published by Oxford University Press Inc., focusing on the intersections of health and social work within the social sciences. Established in 1976, this journal strives to enhance understanding and practice in these critical areas, offering insights into the complexities of health-related issues through a social lens. With a 2023 impact factor that positions it in the Q3 quartile of health and social work categories, it stands as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and students aiming to address contemporary challenges in health care and social services. Although not an open-access journal, it ensures high-quality peer-reviewed content, making significant contributions to advancing knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. As we move towards its convergence year of 2024, HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK continues to provide a vital platform for innovative research and discourse in the global health community.

Child & Family Social Work

Empowering families with evidence-based insights.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1356-7500Frequency: 4 issues/year

Child & Family Social Work is a prominent journal published by WILEY that focuses on the intersection of social work and child welfare. With a commitment to advancing the field through rigorous research and evidence-based practice, it serves as a critical platform for disseminating findings and fostering discussions among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The journal holds a respectable impact factor and has achieved significant recognition, ranked in the Q2 category for both Health (social science) and Social Work, as well as Q1 in Sociology and Political Science in 2023. Its broad scope encompasses the complexities of social work with children and families across various contexts, ensuring it remains an essential resource for those dedicated to improving outcomes for vulnerable populations. Although the journal offers traditional access options, it retains its high standards of quality and relevance, making it a vital asset for anyone invested in the fields of social science and child welfare.

JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK

Fostering dialogue on critical aging issues.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1540-4048Frequency: 8 issues/year

The JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as a pivotal platform in the multidisciplinary study of gerontology, specifically focusing on social work practices affecting older adults. Since its inception in 1979, the journal has cultivated a robust collection of scholarly articles that address critical issues in aging, incorporating diverse perspectives from nursing, social sciences, and social work disciplines. Currently, the journal holds esteemed rankings within various categories, including Q2 in Nursing (miscellaneous) and Q1 in Social Sciences (miscellaneous), showcasing its influence and relevance in the field. With its high Scopus ranking—#96 out of 604 in Social Sciences and #9 out of 45 in Nursing—this publication is essential for researchers and practitioners aiming to improve service delivery and practices surrounding elderly care. Though not offering open access, its contributions are nonetheless invaluable for fostering scholarly dialogue and advancing knowledge within gerontological social work. The journal's emphasis on evidence-based practice, innovative research methodologies, and policy implications makes it a critical resource for anyone committed to enhancing the lives of older populations.

Journal of Childrens Services

Innovating Solutions for Children's Well-being.
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 1746-6660Frequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Children's Services, published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, serves as a leading platform for research and discourse in the realms of social science, particularly focusing on developmental and educational psychology, health, law, and sociology. With an ISSN of 1746-6660 and an E-ISSN of 2042-8677, this journal not only addresses critical issues faced by children today but also offers valuable insights into effective practices within the community and institutional settings. Since its inception in 2006, the Journal has been progressively recognized, securing a Q3 ranking in Developmental and Educational Psychology and Q2 in Education and Health (Social Science) as of 2023, reflecting its growing impact on the academic community. Moreover, its commendable rankings within the Scopus database underscore its relevance, particularly in the fields of Law and Sociology and Political Science. Although the journal does not currently offer Open Access options, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that all published content meets high academic standards. The Journal of Children's Services is a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to improving outcomes for children, encouraging innovation and collaboration across disciplines.

INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORK

Uniting Voices for Global Social Change
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0020-8728Frequency: 6 issues/year

INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORK, a leading journal published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, offers an essential platform for disseminating high-quality research and practices in the field of social work and social sciences. With a strong impact factor and a distinguished presence in the Q1 quartile ranking for Social Sciences, Social Work, and Sociology and Political Science, this journal has established itself as a key resource for academics, practitioners, and students alike. The journal welcomes diverse perspectives and innovative approaches to social issues, promoting critical discussions and evidence-based solutions. Since its inception in 1959, INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORK has committed to enhancing professional practice and advancing theoretical developments, making it indispensable for anyone dedicated to research and practice in international social work. Readers can access current and past issues, which together reflect the journal's ongoing contribution to the field and its commitment to fostering global dialogue on social justice and welfare.

BiD-Textos Universitaris de Biblioteconomia i Documentacio

Advancing Knowledge in Biblioteconomia and Documentation
Publisher: UNIV BARCELONA, SERVEI PUBLICACIONSISSN: 1575-5886Frequency: 2 issues/year

BiD-Textos Universitaris de Biblioteconomia i Documentacio, published by the Universitat de Barcelona, Servei Publicacions, is a pivotal open-access journal that has been contributing to the fields of Library and Information Sciences since its inception in 1998. With its commitment to disseminating scholarly work broadly, BiD serves as a crucial platform for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to explore the latest trends and developments in biblioteconomia and documentation. Positioned in Q4 category in the Library and Information Sciences as per the 2023 metrics, the journal actively embraces its role in highlighting diverse perspectives and innovations within the discipline. The journal offers an accessible forum for rigorous research, reflective practice, and discourse, particularly relevant as it converges into contemporary challenges and opportunities up to 2024. By remaining open access, it promotes equitable access to knowledge, thus ensuring that vital research reaches a wider audience within the academic community and beyond.

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE

Connecting Research and Real-World Impact
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0265-0533Frequency: 4 issues/year

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a premier publication in the field of social work, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice. With ISSN 0265-0533 and E-ISSN 1465-3885, this journal has established itself as a vital resource since its inception in 1983, catering to a diverse audience of researchers, practitioners, and students alike. The journal holds significant rankings, achieving Q1 status in Drug Guides and Q2 status in Social Sciences (miscellaneous), demonstrating its academic excellence and relevance. Although it does not currently offer open access, the impactful content published here contributes to a better understanding of complex social issues and innovative practices in social work. With an engaging scope that encompasses various aspects of social work practice, the JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE plays a crucial role in elevating the discourse within the field and promoting evidence-based approaches for practitioners.