Childhood and Families: research and development centre (CAF) is based within the Faculty of Education in the University of Strathclyde, Scotland and is one the newest members to DECET. The University is working to increase its student population in a way that reflects the diversity of the Scottish population and through DECET, CAF are better informed to contribute to the debate on how to improve the mechanisms for communicating with minority groupings and to draw on the support of an international constituency and knowledge base.

CAF has three interlocking strands of activity:

1. To generate high quality information and understanding about learning and development in families, communities and children's services

CAF teach on related topics such as 'Social Inclusion', 'Class Culture & Religion' and 'Culture & Socialisation' and are involved with a University pilot project on e-learning on diversity. CAF have recently completed an action research project on gender equity and have produced training materials on promoting fathers' involvement in child and family services.

2. To provide leading-edge policy and practice development and to contribute to community learning

CAF's most recent action research programme focuses on social inclusion and integration throughout Europe and will generate international exemplars on respect for diversity that can inform radical proposals for future policy and practice.

3. To provide networking opportunities for policy-makers, practitioners and parents to share and contribute to developments on the best possible support for children

One of the central principles of CAF's work has been to respect the involvement of practitioners, families and communities in the gathering of research data. This approach allows everyone to participate as active citizens and to influence the development of services that are more responsive to the diverse needs of children and families. CAF disseminate findings through the organisation of various events at community, national and international level; for example on alleviation of poverty and disadvantage, integrated approaches, partnership with parents and community learning.

tel +44 (0)141 9503591
fax +44 (0)141 9503592

http://www.strath.ac.uk/centres/caf/

Contact: Jacqué Fee
e-mail: jacque.fee@strath.ac.uk