Some of the problems facing the social work profession in particular had become clear - too much time taken up with form filling, a shortage of front-line staff and increasing caseloads.

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But he thinks his co-religionists have won respect for their willingness to work with other faiths in easing social problems, including the plight of migrants.

ECONOMIST: Catholics in Britain

Richard Barker, from the College of Social Work, said the failure to properly invest in care was storing up problems for the future.

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Fundamental to social work is attention to all of the forces that create, contribute to, and address problems in living.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House

Causing just as much alarm in town halls are suggestions coming from Alan Milburn, the health secretary, that the National Health Service rather than local councils should run social services on the grounds that much of these departments' work is with people who have health problems.

ECONOMIST: English devolution

The first group will be asked to work on pressing political and institutional issues, while the second will focus on economic and social problems.

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Until this nation comes to terms with this flaw in social planning (or the absence thereof), obesity, social isolation, and consumerism (which necessitates the American work ethos), will continue to be increasing problems for the fabric of American society.

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Suicide may be linked to financial and work-related problems, as well as loss of employment and limited emotional, practical and social support from other people.

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