Explore selected research from the Centre for Evidence-Based Youth Services, highlighting publications and commissioned reviews that are informing policy, practice and prevention in Northern Ireland and beyond.

Amplifying Marginalised Voices

This research explores participative approaches for amplifying the voices of justice-involved youth, a marginalised group in criminological research. Using the SPIDER framework, this rapid evidence review examines engagement methods, such as photovoice and lyric writing. The findings show these techniques empower youth and promote self-expression but are constrained by the dominance of risk-focused approaches that prioritise adult-led decision-making. This raises critical questions about the compatibility of participatory methods with justice systems focused on risk management. The study highlights the need for more inclusive approaches that navigate systemic constraints while embedding meaningful youth participation in justice reform.

Tipping the Scales: The Predictive Utility of the PCE–ACE Ratio

This study examined how the balance between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs) is associated with adult outcomes in Northern Ireland.

Using data from a representative sample of 1,203 adults, the research found that a higher PCE:ACE ratio was linked to better outcomes across a range of areas, including lower likelihood of arrest, incarceration, school exclusion, substance use and mental health diagnosis. Those with lower ratios experienced the highest levels of adversity.

The findings suggest that ratio-based approaches may offer a useful population-level way of understanding risk and protection, with important implications for prevention and early intervention.

Childhood Adversity, Community Violence and Adult Outcomes in Northern Ireland

This research explored the prevalence and impact of both adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and extrafamilial violence (EFV) in Northern Ireland.

Drawing on a representative adult sample, the study found that while ACEs remain strongly associated with poorer outcomes in adulthood, experiences of violence beyond the family also make an important independent contribution. EFV was linked to poorer mental health outcomes, including post-traumatic stress and anxiety, even after adjusting for age, gender and deprivation.

The study highlights the need to look beyond household adversity alone when understanding long-term harm and planning prevention strategies.

How Ready Are Organisations to Recognise, Respond to and Reduce Child Criminal Exploitation?

Commissioned by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland, this review examined how prepared public bodies are to respond to child criminal exploitation (CCE).

Using an implementation framework, the review found a mixed picture. While awareness of CCE has increased, important challenges remain around information sharing, data systems, confidence in responding, and the consistency of training and support available to professionals.

The review recommends stronger multi-agency data-sharing protocols, clearer operational processes, and more consistent training and supervision to improve responses to children at risk.