Need is increasingly used as the basis for the provision of a range of public services. This timely book examines the ways in which needs are assessed in relation to these services. It examines the theory and practice of needs assessment and presents a series of policy specific case studies where needs assessments are being used, including: health, housing, community care, legal aid and training.
Designed for use by students and practitioners involved in social and public policy, this book addresses the theoretical, conceptual and practical issues associated with needs assessment today.
Part one: Theoretical, contextual and methodological issues
Introduction
assessing needs. Theory and practice
Needs and public services
Methodologies for needs assessment
Part two: Needs assessments in practice
Needs assessment and community care
Health needs assessment
Assessing community needs
Assessing housing needs
Assessing needs for legal services
Assessing labour market and training needs
Conclusion
themes and issues
Index.
