In this talk Professor Feinstein will describe the aims and findings of a project at the Children’s Commissioner’s Office to assess the level of unmet need amongst children in England. The role of the Commissioner following the 2004 Children Act is to ensure the needs, interests and rights of children are met, particularly those who might be considered vulnerable or invisible. This requires definition and it is for each commissioner to define their strategic priorities. To inform the work of the 3rd Commissioner (Anne Longfield (2015-2021), a framework was developed that provides a holistic account of child needs and was the basis of a 3-year research programme that highlighted substantial unmet need amongst children in England and also considerable gaps in available data. In this lecture, Professor Feinstein will describe the framework and some of the methodological issues raised in measuring levels of need. He will describe findings in both substantive and research terms and draw out the implications for a government and society that wishes to use data and information to assess and respond to child needs.

Zoom joining link: spi-ox-ac-uk.zoom.us/j/81896094327

Booking required.

(Department of Social Policy and Intervention members do not need to register)