CRFR is a leader in research on childhood and youth issues. Through our large body of empirical research, the Centre has contributed to the new social studies of childhood and the view of children as competent social actors. Underpinning our approach to childhood and youth research is our commitment to innovative approaches

and, in particular, participatory research. More recent work has focused on relational understandings of childhood, interdependencies and social networks; relationality in care practices; intergenerational relationships; and children and young people’s role on political processes and decision-making.

We seek to work collaboratively with research participants, service users, practitioners and policymakers, and are committed to challenging rather than reinforcing current hierarchies and exclusions to inform policies and practices that shape the lives of children and families.