Advocating for family collaboration.
Our mission is to improve social work with families, by studying collaborative approaches that empower parents, young people and families. We work with organisations to implement our findings to help children, young people and families.
The Centre provides a platform for sharing research, best practices, and innovative strategies. We foster partnerships between families, young people, practitioners, policymakers, and communities. This website has publications, collaborative research and practice resources to improve the well-being of children, youth and families.
Parents, researchers and social workers collaborate through the Centre to advocate for what parents need to help their children and families.
Our Research
The Centre for Collaborative Practice conducts research aimed at transforming social work practice, particularly in the child protection field. Our work focuses on innovative, evidence-based approaches that prioritise collaboration and relational methods, ensuring children, families, and parents have a meaningful voice in decision making.
From parental advocacy to extra familial harm, we address complex challenges in social care with the goal of shaping policy and improving practice. Explore our research projects, publications, and blog to learn more about our work and its impact on the field.
Articles & Resources
Our articles and resources provide valuable insights into key topics in social work and collaborative practice. Here, you'll find a diverse collection of articles, podcasts, videos, and other media exploring critical issues - from parental advocacy to children’s participation in decision making.
Designed to inform, inspire, and spark meaningful conversations, our resources feature insights from our team and leading experts in the field. Explore our content to stay up to date with the latest developments in social care research and practice.
About Us
We are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families through innovative research and meaningful collaboration. We tackle critical social care challenges by combining academic expertise with real-world insights. Our work bridges the gap between research and practice, shaping policies, empowering families, and driving meaningful change in social care. Through partnerships with professionals, communities, and those with lived experience, we develop practical, evidence-based solutions that make a lasting impact.
"Peer Advocacy empowers parents with support from those who’ve faced similar challenges, fostering understanding, confidence, and collaboration. This approach has led to better decision-making, stronger relationships with authorities, and a greater sense of control."
— Tim Fisher, Principal Social Worker, Specialist in Participation and Co-design
Latest Articles
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How are policies implemented in children's services?
Developing an initial programme theory to evaluate the implementation of the new Child Sexual Exploitation guidance in Wales.
JUL 2022
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The Coronavirus Pandemic. Sharing experiences & lessons
The Coronavirus (COVID 19) Pandemic: Young People leaving care and practitioners share their experiences and lessons for the future.
OCT 2020
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The Perceived Impact of Peer Parental Advocacy on Child Protection Practice
Peer parental advocacy (PPA) helps parents navigate the child protection system by providing support from those with lived experience. This evaluation explores its impact in Camden, highlighting key factors for successful implementation.
JAN 2023
Contact & enquiries
Get in touch and learn more about our latest research, more information and collaborations.
07891 740 590