This Introductory Chapter Explains The Structure And Rationale Of The Book. The Ambit Model Has Been Developed To Support Professionals And Networks Working To Help Individuals With Multiple Needs; The Model Has Undergone Significant Development In Recent Years, Partly In Response To The Experiences Of Implementation And Adaptation By Different Professions In Different Context Described In This Book. Some Of The Main Issues That Shape The Ambit Model Are Outlined: That Many Clients Have Multiple Needs, That Multiple Needs Attract Multiple Helpers, Collaboration Is Hard To Achieve And The Vital Importance But Fragility Of The Helping Process. Attention Is Drawn To The Importance Of Attachment Theory To The Model, And The Importance Of The Worker's State Of Mind In The Helping Process. Key Features Of A Non-mentalizing Helping System Are Described: Lack Of Trust, A Lack Of Making Sense Behaviour, Loss Of Narrative Continuity, Not Holding The Balance Between Perspectives When Designing Help And Problems With Planning--