Reciprocal social work and social policy: Conclusions

This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book emphasises that everyone has something to give and that being able to reciprocate - as well as behave respectfully - is essential for one's well-being and self-esteem. It describes the need for future qualitative and quantitative research into reciprocity focusing on experiences of bidirectionality, receiving and giving within welfare services, and social work and society at large as ways of challenging existing hierarchical power relationships. The book discusses the use of collaborative and creative methods in practice, research and education as well as the co-production of professional and experiential knowledge and mutual learning. It offers a vision that promotes interdependence, mutual respect and co-learning and moves us away from individualistic models of health and social care to a collective vision that understands and locates people in their various networks.