This course aims at providing students with a theoretical as well as an analytical framework in understanding social policy in Hong Kong as well as in the Western world. Also, students will develop a better understanding of the legal context of social work, and also the principles and processes that shape and regulate social work practice. In particular, the major provisions of the national security laws implemented in Hong Kong and how these relate to social work and social services will be covered.

Students will first examine the theoretical underpinnings of social policy and legal theories related to social work, followed by a critical examination of the dimensions of policy and legal issues which affect the distribution of resources in society. Case examples of social policy and legal issues in Hong Kong will be used as illustrations throughout the course