Book excerpt: At a time of great change, the moves towards a primary healthcare led NHS are challenging nurses to rethink their roles, organisation and strategy. This book combines an analysis of policies which have shaped community nursing from the 19th century with an exploration of recent trends and developments. Illustrated throughout with examples of present responses to current policies, this book will be invaluable for all community nurses, both practising and student, as well as for policy-makers and sociologists.