Theory

My writing in the sexual abuse field has been used across the spectrum: influencing frontline assessment practice, the development and refinement of child protection procedures, and influencing the government review of sexual abuse legislation. I have been invited to author articles, books and chapters with many people from overseas and I have edited a number of multi-contributor books reflecting the need for a global approach to many of the problems we are now facing.

I have developed a series of conceptual models to encourage localities to respond in detail to the outline provided for them in government legislation and guidance. I have led the implementation of the assessment framework in one authority and consulted to several others. I am currently addressing the challenges of the packed change agenda facing social care by trying to provide clear pathways for workers, agencies and inter-agency groups and bodies, contributing to and editing a book on the subject as well as several journal articles and conference presentations. I am currently undertaking a PhD by publication at Sheffield Hallam University.

Research

I have conducted research (with Jan Horwath) into the emergence and operation of core groups in the UK. These findings have been disseminated widely through journal articles, books and conference presentations. The findings have influenced more detailed central government guidance and have been formally referenced to reflect this.

I am currently a book reviewer for several journals and book companies, an Associate Editor for the Journal of Sexual Aggression (in the UK); an invited reviewer for International Journal of Behavioural Consultation and Therapy (IJBCT) (in the USA) as well as operating as a Commissioning Editor for Russell House Publishing (see link section). My drive is to integrate the best of theory, research and practice to influence better outcomes for the children we seek to serve.

Practice

I have specialised operationally in the child protection field for the last 25 years and this depth of knowledge is useful when looking at what options exist to tackle current issues by importing ideas from elsewhere. Having recently assumed responsibility for domestic violence service provision in Salford, the links between child protection and domestic violence has huge cross-fertilisation potential and has already led to articles, books and conference presentations on the overlap.

My operational experience includes leading on the investigation of allegations against staff working with children; providing expert reviews of practice; research and evaluation; devising detailed procedures and practice guidance; as well as more general service development and consultancy work at service and case level to all the constituent agencies within the child care field. I am also experienced at inter-agency forums such as ACPC and Domestic Violence Strategy Groups and in preparing briefings for Cabinet.

I have considerable experience in developing and delivering training at all levels from introductory to advanced, on a single-agency and multi-agency basis. I have also delivered lectures to the Child Care Award students at the Universities of Salford and Durham and acted as module leader for one around assessment and intervention.

I maintain my practice skills through managing a therapeutic project for children who have experienced sexual abuse and their families, and projects working with young people who sexually abuse and their families. I also provide supervision to staff delivering such services.