Adolescence is one of the most exciting and important stages of human development. Understanding adolescent development theories can give practitioners and services the knowledge, skills, and confidence to improve outcomes for young people. Working in the UK and the US, I provide specialist consultation, training, research, and service evaluation rooted in adolescent development and guided by strengths-based and participatory approaches. With over twenty years of dedicated experience as a social worker, researcher, and consultant, I am skilled and passionate about supporting systems change (or adaptations) to improve outcomes for young people, families, and communities.In 2023, I founded 10 AND 23, an organisation dedicated to promoting the needs and rights of young people. Through 10 AND 23, I share valuable research and evidence-based practices through accessible guides, publications, consultancy, keynote speeches, and training sessions. My career highlights include completing my PhD which focused on adolescent development, exploitation, youth related violence and decision-making. Other professional achievements include co-founding and directing innovative projects, such as Listen Up, a research and consultation organisation that amplifies marginalised voices in child protection. I also led a co-designed approach to support young people at risk of exploitation. The service was funded by the Department for Education and received a positive independent evaluation. It has since been rolled out across the county of Greater Manchester, UK. In previous roles, I served as a national practice improvement advisor at the National Centre of Expertise on child sexual abuse based in London. My role included translating research and evidence relating to child sexual abuse into practice and policy. I also worked with Greater Manchester Police as the Safeguard Leader for serious and organised crime, including tackling modern slavery. Let’s Connect:If you want to enhance your team's approach to supporting young people or collaborate on projects to improve responses to adolescents, please reach out.