Solidarity is not a dirty word: Exploring and locating solidarity as a theory and model for a radical community social work practice.

Decades of neoliberalism in the UK have resulted in the depoliticization of social work. In its place we have witnessed the rise of neo-liberal forms of governance and a social work practice focused on assessing risk and managing resources. This paper will highlight contemporary social work research, which focuses on innovative practices sustaining and nourishing the core values of community based social support. Within the discussion we make the case for a more politically informed social work practice, one which is based on solidarity, in opposition to a system which isolates individuals and internalises complex social problems. We posit that the application of solidarity, delivers a practice that promotes social inclusion. It is from this perspective that we will present evidence from ethnographic research drawing upon community social work practice to highlight the importance of social solidarity and provide an insight into different ways of working