This book explores the complex relationship between public policy and scandal. By critically examining some of the landmark scandals of the post war period, using a variety of contemporary records and by close examination of the public inquiries which followed, this book describes the process whereby scandals are constructed and pursued, and demonstrates how scandals coincide with key shifts in public policy, in ways that are more complex and reciprocal than might first appear.
'This is an original and thought-provoking book which is very much to be welcomed.' - Social Policy
'For those who have concerns about the development of policy and the media representation of social work and social care, this is an important book.' - Brian Littlechild, University of Hertfordshire
'...a significant and timely contribution to our understanding of how public policy is made.' - Karin Crawford, Children & Society
'Butler and Drakeford present a convincing account of the peculiar significance of public scandal in this well-written and clearly constructed volume.' - Sir William Utting, The Mental Health Review
'For those who have concerns about the development of policy and the media representation of social work and social care, this is an important book.' - Brian Littlechild, University of Hertfordshire
'...a significant and timely contribution to our understanding of how public policy is made.' - Karin Crawford, Children & Society
'Butler and Drakeford present a convincing account of the peculiar significance of public scandal in this well-written and clearly constructed volume.' - Sir William Utting, The Mental Health Review