Multi-agency protocols to reduce the criminalisation of children in care: A realist evaluation

Bezeczky, Zoe 2025. Multi-agency protocols to reduce the criminalisation of children in care: A realist evaluation. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Background: There have been multiple calls for local areas in England and Wales to introduce multi-agency protocols to reduce the criminalisation of children in care. This thesis employs realist methodology to examine how the protocols are intended to work, for whom, in what circumstances, and why. Methods: Local multi-agency protocols from England and Wales were analysed to understand their contents and examine the similarities and differences between them. Interviews and documents were collected and analysed from four case study areas and policy makers to develop and revise programme theories. Results: Thirty multi-agency protocols were identified in England and Wales, with just over half of police forces signed up to a protocol (58%; n= 25/43). The protocols varied considerably in terms of the agencies involved, the types of care placements supported, and the level of guidance provided. Participants suggested that the protocols enabled partner agencies to commit to a shared goal, establish clear roles and responsibilities, and hold each other to account. The approach encouraged staff to recognise the impact of trauma on a child’s behaviour and look for ways to respond that avoid prosecution wherever possible. The protocols were perceived to work well when there was a committed senior leader, buy-in from partner agencies, supportive cultures, positive staff relationships, low staff turnover, and sufficient resources. Conclusion: Multi-agency protocols have been inconsistently introduced across England and Wales, creating a ‘postcode lottery’ in the protection children in care receive from criminalisation. The findings demonstrate the complexity of implementation and highlight the conditions that support the approach, such as leadership and resourcing, that policy makers and practitioners need to be aware of. This thesis also illustrates how realist methodology can aid our understanding of youth justice interventions and demonstrates some of its advantages and disadvantages.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	17 February 2026
Last Modified:	17 Feb 2026 10:40
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/184893

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