This major new textbook looks at the diversity and complexity of the manager's task in the changing context of care provision and argues for a practice-led approach. Informed by extensive consultation with managers, practitioners and users of services, the authors of this textbook: * examine the policy, legal and organisational contexts of care * highlight the impact for managers of the government's modernising agenda and initiatives for inter-professional working * discuss the role of the managers in providing ethical care grounded in good practice * tackle the task of translating competing views from service users and carers into high-quality service provision * review the position of the manager in relation to debates on the deprofessionalisation of care. Managing Care in Context is essential reading for students, practitioners and aspiring, new and experienced managers of care within the health and social services sector. It will help managers to understand what their role is, how it has developed and how to face the challenges of the future.