This paper is part of The College of Social Work’s business case for social work with adults. This series of publications is designed to make the social and economic case for public sector investment in social work, even against a background of financial cutbacks. The paper outlines the changing policy landscape in health and social care and the importance of social work leadership. It also includes a series of case studies to illustrate the value of investing in social work, fresh ideas on CPD and social work research funding, and a summary of 'next steps' for The College of Social Work including collaborative work with the Royal College of General Practitioners.