Youth Workers at the Heart of Violence Prevention, a webinar with Professor Carlene Firmin

Join Professor Carlene Firmin (Durham University) this Chwefror as she shares new research that shines a spotlight on the ways youth workers safeguard young people impacted by violence.

The findings show that youth workers are often the trusted adults young people turn to. They build safe, youth led spaces where early intervention, de escalation, and meaningful relationships can thrive.

From referring young people into safeguarding systems, advocating for their needs in those systems, building safety in the places they spend their time, and understanding what young people need, youth workers are uniquely positioned to provide protect young people and promote their welfare.

Yet despite this central role, youth workers often face challenges such as inconsistent recognition within safeguarding systems, short term funding that undermines stable provision, and power imbalances that limit their influence in multi agency structures. Carlene will explore these barriers while highlighting how youth centred, relational practice is essential to safeguarding young people impacted by extra-familial harm.