Rapid changes are taking place in the practice of psychiatry and nowhere is this more pronounced than in its community aspects. Although much that has changed sometimes appears to have done so without adequate forethought or research there is already a considerable body of knowledge that underscores recent developments. In this book, first published in 1995, prominent researchers in this expanding subject debate the implications of knowledge derived from a variety of sources, and look ahead to impending developments that will need further research enquiry. The chapters are wide in scope and topical in content and the discussions after each are frank and informative. This book will be of help to all those involved in the organisation of psychiatric care.

‘… a clear and sensitively written book that has successfully summarised works which are probably familiar to readers of this Journal. I would recommend it as good value for money and essential reading to mental health professionals committed to establishing or improving community based psychiatric services.’

Robert Chaplin Source: British Journal of Psychiatry

‘The book contains practical insights into conducting research in this field that will probably be useful to other researchers in the field.’

John Geddes Source: The Lancet

‘ … it does contain some thought-provoking discussion about the nature of research into mental health … it would be a valuable addition to any CPN library.’

Ian Baguley Source: Mental Health Nursing