Knowledge and Skills Partnerships in Youth Justice

"This book is the first to bring together academics and professionals in youth justice to examine the benefits of exchanging their knowledge and practice. The significant, and accessible, chapters are written by leading academic authors and experienced professionals in the field and offer inspirational examples of a wide range of effective partnership between academics and professionals." - Professor Raymond Arthur, Northumbria University

"The arrival of this book is really heartening. For those of us who have aspired to bridge the gaps between practice, learning and research this represents a major contribution towards furthering that aim. The authors bring their own wide range of applied knowledge, research experience and critical insights to the field at a time of great change, when there are very real opportunities to harness what we know to improve what is offered to young people who experience the criminal justice system. With a variety of contributions from differing perspectives, the book will provide a rounded view of the field, combined with a wealth of ideas about how best to align knowledge and practice to the maximum effect. Throughout the book runs a spirit of exchange and innovation, which highlights the very real gains to be made on all sides from direct and committed engagement between those dealing with the 'messy realities' of practice, and those who have the opportunity to document, reflect and inform. This will be a major asset for those involved in youth justice research and education, on all sides." - Professor Roger Smith, Durham University

"This interesting, edited collection is the outcome of a productive new knowledge transfer partnership between the authors and Cheshire Youth Justice Services. Contributors are drawn widely, producing policy relevant discussions that are situated in research and practice, while demonstrating the symbiotic relationship between these domains, through placements, guest lectures and other activities. Consideration of Wales, Scotland and Belarus broadens the scope of discussion in a way that will interest readers from different backgrounds. Ultimately, this valuable volume underlines the importance of meaningful connections between different parties to benefit young people's treatment and outcomes." - Professor Sarah Brooks-Wilson, University of Birmingham