The return of the series that explores the ethical issues surrounding social policy, and the gap between theory and practice.
Following the format of previous series, imaginary case studies are devised representing real-life experiences.
Professionals working in the field are guided through each fictional case and questioned on the decisions they would make. The technique enables participants to talk openly without betraying client confidentiality, while moderators try to test the thinking behind the positions being taken.

The first programme in the three-part series aims to discover under what circumstances social workers would remove a baby from its parents. Does their work ever compromise an individual's right to privacy? And how far will they go to protect endangered children? Is it, for example, excessive to set up a covert filming operation and record parents' lovemaking in the search for evidence of risk to a baby? Moderator Helena Kennedy QC tries to walk the line between personal liberty and the protection of innocent children.
(The second programme is tomorrow at 7.30pm)
Polly Toynbee: page 14