The contribution of social work and social care to the reduction of health inequalities: four case studies

Despite continuing overall improvements in life expectancy, inequalities in UK health outcomes are wide and widening. Differences in average life expectancy between the most advantaged and most disadvantaged local boroughs in the UK increased from 9 to 11 years for men over the decade to 2001. . . .

Social work and social care have established experience of working with marginalised groups, and may play an important role in promoting individual and community health and wellbeing.