Policy research group to examine barriers faced by marginalised children

The Childhood and Youth Research Institute brings together experts in a range of areas including health, ophthalmology, education and music therapy.

The aim of the group will be to research a range of issues affecting children and young people including public sector cuts and barriers faced by those with learning difficulties.

Head of the institute Dr Chrissie Rogers, who is a sociology and disability researcher, said: "Research will be based on the participation of children and young people who have voices that want to be heard. It is these individuals who can improve the way things are done in the future."

Research already underway includes a series of focus groups with young people with mild to moderate learning disabilities that will examine their experiences of friendships and relationships.

Future work will look at the affect of public sector cuts on children and young people, and welfare and benefit reforms.

The institute is based at the University’s Chelmsford campus.