Overview of Dr Anne Graham Founding Director

What is the Centre for Children and Young People? Aim ….to contribute to research, policy and practice in matters relating to children and young people …particular (though not exclusive) emphasis on regional and rural contexts.

Three elements or dimensions to the work of the Centre 1.Focus on interdisciplinary collaboration 2.Strong emphasis on collaboration between researchers and practitioners 3.The participation of children and young people

Why an inter disciplinary approach? Children’s issues do not usually exist in isolation Contribute to understanding the WHOLE child in his/her context Draws on a broad range of research expertise and professional experience across a range of sectors – –teachers –health professionals –community services personnel –lawyers etc Work collaboratively with organisations Build links between research and practice.

Why a collaborative approach? Impact - Get the most benefit from the research that is available. Dissemination - Making research accessible to those who can best use it. Benefit - Generates knowledge that is useful and translates into improved practice or service delivery. Value Adding - Not duplicating or competing with existing research initiatives. Partnering - with organisations in the region Networking - with other state and national initiatives. Member of the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY)

How will the collaboration work? Will assist in facilitating: –Research partnerships –Professionally relevant seminars and conferences –Access to research and information –Communication through –?–? Centre Associates Organizations, agencies or individuals

Why an emphasis on child and youth participation? Children and young people should be at the heart of what we do. Children and young people are considered stakeholders with the right and capacity to contribute and to be involved. Participation is a right. allows them to voice their own perspectives and views. adds to our developing knowledge of children and childhood. improves decision making and follow up actions Children’s voices are central both research and practice as they are experts on their own lives.

What does participation require? Skilled and resourceful staff Resourcing to enable involvement A supportive environment which guides their understandings of participation. Mechanisms that enable consultation Mechanisms for feedback

What is the proposed structure? Centre for Children and Young People Children and Youth Consultative Committee Advisory Board

Where is the Centre located?

B2.45 Level 2, B Block

AND FINALLY…

Overview of Dr Anne Graham Founding Director