Reflections from Scotland: Speaking at the CYCJ’s National Youth Justice Conference

At the beginning of June I had the privilege of delivering the keynote on day two of Scotland’s National Youth Justice Conference, hosted by the Children & Young People's Centre for Justice (CYCJ) in Stirling.

My talk focused on adolescence, exploitation and modern slavery - drawing on both my research and the expert witness work I carry out through Black Box Research and Consultancy. I shared the journey of Adam, a remarkable young person I’ve worked closely with, and his story of being criminally exploited from the age of 13. I first met Adam in 2022 whilst working on his case as an expert witness. The horrors and pain he endured whilst being forced into county lines activity - alongside the relentless and deeply tragic systemic failings faced by both him and his family throughout much of his adolescence - have stayed with me ever since. Sharing his story offered a powerful way to highlight just how easily children can be pulled into exploitation. But also how, with the right interventions, support, and people around them, those same children can begin to heal - and to hope.

I was blown away by the speakers I heard on day two and the questions we received from the attendees (including Donna McEwan, DI Craig Thompson, Creative Change Collective Fiona Steel, Orielle Taylor and many more). There’s something deeply progressive about the Scottish approach to youth justice that really stood out. Again and again, I heard professionals speak not about punishing children, but about protecting and understanding them. Scotland’s determination to see and safeguard the child - no matter their circumstances - is something I’ll be taking back with me.

This wasn’t Black Box’s first visit to Scotland. Back in October, we partnered with the CYCJ to deliver a one-day conference in Glasgow, which brought together researchers, practitioners and those with lived experience. After that event, we recorded a podcast to reflect on the themes and learning that came out of the day - you can listen to it here.

The feedback I’ve received since Stirling has been so thoughtful. It’s always an emotional experience sharing stories like Adam’s, but when you know they’ve resonated and helped professionals think differently, it makes it all worthwhile.

I’ll always be grateful to Adam for trusting me to share his story - it’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. A heartful thank you to the team at CYCJ for the invitation to speak and for continuing to lead the way in this space. It was an inspiring day, and I’m already looking forward to being back in Scotland soon.