People

The Centre for Evidence Based Youth Services brings together researchers, practitioners and doctoral scholars committed to improving outcomes for children and young people.

Our team combines academic excellence with frontline practice expertise to ensure that research is rigorous, relevant and responsive to the realities facing young people today. Through strong partnerships across policy, statutory services and communities, we work to generate evidence that informs practice and influences decision-making.

CENTRE LEADERSHIP

Colm Walsh speaking during a presentation at the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen’s University Belfast.

Colm Walsh - Director (Research)

Colm Walsh is a criminologist specialising in positive youth development, violence prevention and effective interventions. As Director (Research), he leads the Centre’s research strategy, partnerships and funding portfolio, ensuring our work is methodologically robust and policy-relevant.

Portrait of Arlene Kee smiling with arms folded, seated in front of a brick wall.

Arlene Kee - Director (Practice)

Arlene Kee leads the Centre’s practice and partnership development. As Director (Practice), she ensures that the Centre’s research aligns closely with the needs of children, young people and practitioners across Northern Ireland, strengthening the connection between evidence and frontline delivery.

Our Research Community

The Centre brings together academic experts, research fellows and doctoral researchers working collaboratively to strengthen evidence-based youth services. Our structure supports interdisciplinary research and close partnership with policy and practice, ensuring our work remains rigorous, relevant and responsive to the needs of children and young people.

Meet the people shaping our research and impact.

Academic staff engaged in discussion during a meeting, seated around a table in a light-filled office setting.

Academic Members

Leading interdisciplinary research across youth policy and practice.

Research Fellows

Delivering funded research and translating evidence into practice.

Doctoral students studying together in a university library, reviewing academic texts and discussing research.

Doctoral Researchers

Advancing new knowledge in safeguarding, exploitation and youth services.

External Advisory Board

Providing strategic oversight and sector insight.