Fern is an early career researcher based at CYCJ interested in the practice, processes and interventions, impact and experiences of the Scottish youth justice system. Her PhD explored how and why decisions are made in the context of ‘Early and Effective Intervention’ (EEI) and the impact of this on practice, outcomes and the system. Fern leads and develops a range of research projects in youth justice and related areas.
Currently, Fern is evaluating a five year Big Lottery funded project ‘Inclusion as Prevention’. The project aims to test, learn and develop our understanding of what happens when you meaningfully include those who are most often excluded, and whether this can lead to a reduction in negative outcomes, including reducing offending. It is a partnership project between South Lanarkshire Council, Action for Children, Dartington Design Lab and CYCJ.