This book draws on the theoretical frameworks of Bourdieu, Wacquant, and others to offer a critical sociological analysis of the effects of neoliberalism and austerity politics on the role of social work and wider welfare provision. The book is divided into two sections: the first examines the development of neoliberal ideas and their impact in the areas of social welfare. The second explores the implications of this across a range of areas of social work practice, including work with children and families, working with asylum seekers and refugees, and mental health.