Poverty, conflict, and disease are like 'clouds' that encircle our communities. We must find ways to raise our heads above the clouds and work towards the world we hope for ...
This publication documents an emerging field of practice: narrative 'development' work. The Mt Elgon Self-Help Community Project, based in rural Uganda, uses narrative practices to spark and sustain local social action and environmental and economic projects.
The first part of this publication consists of stories from Ntaria/Hermannsburg about the ways in which they are dealing with grief, the 'grog' (alcohol), and other community hardships. These stories have since been shared with other communities and some of the messages that have been returned are also included here. The second part of this publication explains the principles informing this project and introduces new concepts in relation to collective narrative practice. Drawing on narrative ideas and the work of Paulo Freire, Sharon Welch, and Hilde Lindemann Nelson, this extended... More info
'Solution-Focused Groupwork (2001) was a major contribution to the literature on group work. It has been one of this author's most influential books. The Second Edition contains much new material including the uses of 'problem talk', an activity normally avoided by solution-focused therapists. Preparation for groups, client motivation and collaboration are all explored in detail. The role of (or necessity for?) social time to be built into the therapy model is an interesting and novel idea. Suggestions are made for client evaluation and for creative exercises to enhance the... More info
Picture This Cards are a tool that can help to create respectful ways of working with people. An image, especially a photograph, can have a unique ability to help develop relationships with people and stimulate the imagination, memory and emotions. The 75 original, evocative photographs that make up Picture This offer opportunities for people of all ages to reflect on their experiences and communicate with others. Some of these full-colour images are poignant, some are heart-warming and others are tinged with humour. This highly interpretive tool can open up... More info