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Newsletter: September 2026
Welcome to the September edition of the Children and Young People's Wellbeing @ Exeter Research Network's newsletter
Contents:
NEWS | EVENTS | OPPORTUNITIES | RESOURCES
Read on to explore publications from network members, helpful resources, and ways to get involved through events, training and more.
We’d love to highlight your latest projects, publications, events, and opportunities—just send us an email cypwellbeing@exeter.ac.uk.
NEWS
CYPW Research Network Away Day- Watch This Space
Please look out for an invitation from the CYPW Research Network to an Away Day! Date and venue to be confirmed very soon. This will be an opportunity to step away from day-to-day pressures, reconnect with colleagues, and help shape the future direction of the network for 2026/27.
Following a recent review, the network successfully retained its research network status and was awarded interim support for a further year. As we prepare our resubmission in December, we would welcome your help in demonstrating the network's impact and identifying priorities for future development. We are particularly keen to gather evidence of how the network supports collaboration across faculties and with external partners, helps members identify funding opportunities, and contributes to research impact.
The day will also build on ideas and priorities identified at our Symposium in June and provide an opportunity to help shape the network's activities for the coming year. Lunch will be provided, along with time to network, reflect and recharge. We’ll share more details very soon! Anna & Gretchen, Network Leads
CYPW Research Network 2026/27 Seminar Series- We Need Your Input
Thank you to everyone who attended, contributed and participated in last year's CYPW Research Network Seminar Series. The programme was a great success, featuring an engaging range of speakers and thought-provoking topics. If you missed them, you can find some of the recording in the Resources section below. We are now planning a seminar series for 2026/27, and we'd love your input.
We're looking for suggestions for speakers and topics, as well as offers to present. Do you know a visiting researcher or partner who could speak on campus, or online, or do you or your teams have completed or ongoing research to share? Please complete this form CYPW @Exeter Research Network 2026/ 27 Seminar Series – Fill in form or email cypwellbeing@exeter.ac.uk with your ideas. Thank you!
GCSE Success Through Pioneering NEET Project
A partnership between the University of Exeter and Exeter College is helping young people overcome barriers to education and achieve GCSE success. In its pilot year, 25 teenagers who were out of school were supported to sit English and maths GCSEs, with all achieving graded results and many securing passes needed for further study.
Led by Dr Luke Graham and Professor Anna Mountford-Zimdars, the project has helped participants progress into college courses and training opportunities. With around 300 young people now on the waiting list, the initiative highlights the potential of collaborative approaches to reducing youth disengagement and improving life chances across the South West. Read more here. https://news.exeter.ac.uk/faculty-of-humanities-arts-and-social-sciences/
New Outdoor Play Research Centre launches at Exeter
The University of Exeter has launched the new Outdoor Play Research Centre, led by Professor Helen Dodd, to investigate why children are playing outdoors independently less than previous generations and what can be done to reverse the trend. Research from the Centre's landmark study found that children are now nearly 11 years old before they first play outdoors without supervision, more than a year later than their parents did.
The Centre will bring together researchers and partners to study the links between outdoor play, mental health and wellbeing, and develop evidence-based solutions to increase opportunities for children to play independently. The work aims to inform policy and practice, helping more children benefit from the physical, social and emotional advantages of outdoor play. Read more here https://news.exeter.ac.uk/ and sign up here to keep up to date https://www.outdoorplayresearchcentre.co.uk/.
Health Visitor Support Helps New Mothers Stay Smoke-Free
New multi-institute research involving the University of Exeter has shown that health visitor support can help mothers remain smoke-free after childbirth. The BabyBreathe programme combines one-to-one support from trained health visitors with digital resources, text messages and practical relapse-prevention tools.
The study found that women who received the programme as intended were more likely to remain smoke-free 12 months after giving birth than those receiving usual care. Researchers say the findings highlight the important role health visitors can play in supporting long-term smoking cessation, improving health outcomes for mothers and babies, and helping to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke during early childhood. Read more here https://www.bmj.com/content/394/bmj-2026-100242
Independent Mobility, Safety and Young People’s Wellbeing
A new study led by researchers including the University of Exeter and published in Wellbeing, Space & Society has challenged assumptions about the benefits of independent mobility for children and young people. Analysing data from almost 9,000 participants across England, the researchers found that greater independence was linked to slightly lower wellbeing among younger children. For adolescents, the relationship depended on context, with stronger negative associations seen among those who felt unsafe in their neighbourhoods. The findings suggest that promoting independence alone is not enough. Creating safe, supportive environments and carefully managing the transition to greater independence during adolescence may be key to supporting young people's wellbeing. Read more here “Independent mobility and children and young people’s wellbeing: the moderating role of perceived safety and neighbourhood socioeconomic conditions”
First UK ADHD Toolkit for Primary Schools
A new ADHD toolkit developed by Dr Abby Russell and colleagues is the first designed specifically for use in UK primary schools. The FLEX Toolkit helps teachers better support children with ADHD through practical, evidence-based strategies that can be used in everyday classrooms without specialist training.
Co-designed with children, families, teachers and clinicians, the online resource focuses on understanding each child's strengths and needs while promoting a neurodiversity-informed approach. The toolkit has already been tested in primary schools and shown to be both practical and effective. Researchers hope it will help improve school experiences, wellbeing and educational outcomes for children with ADHD across the UK. Read more here https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40814-026-01879-7
Devon-Made Inclusion Solutions for Professionals and Young People
A new card-based resource, RISE With Me, has been launched to help schools have more solution-focused conversations about pupils' experiences of education. Co-designed over 15 months with autistic young people, interns and staff, the tool supports schools in responding to new inclusion requirements and the Seven Principles of Inclusion.
Developed by CYPW Network external member WayMakers, RISE With Me aims to make discussions about school experiences more meaningful and accessible, drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience. Early feedback from learners, families and school staff has been highly positive.
Waymaker also offer youth-led RISE workshops for settings across the south-west. Delivered in-person by RISE Leaders they are for any professionals working with children and young people and complement the RISE With Me cards. Contact Alex Kelly for questions alex@waymakers.co.uk.
Family Circumstances Play Key Role in Children's Health
New research led by the University of Exeter suggests that a family's socioeconomic circumstances may have a greater influence on children's long-term health than parental behaviours during pregnancy, such as smoking, alcohol consumption or caffeine intake. The study analysed data from more than 230,000 parents and children across the UK and Norway.
Lead author Professor Gemma Sharp found that socioeconomic disadvantage was more consistently linked to a wide range of child health outcomes than prenatal health behaviours. The findings highlight the importance of addressing social and economic inequalities as part of efforts to improve children's health and wellbeing, and suggest that supporting families more broadly could have lasting benefits for future generations. Read the full article https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1005153.
Children’s Commissioner Highlights Growing Mental Health Crisis
A new report from the Children’s Commissioner for England highlights increasing demand for mental health support among children and young people. Referrals to mental health services have risen to more than one million children annually—around one in ten children and almost double the number recorded in 2018–19. The report describes lengthy waits for support and growing concerns among schools, families and young people. It also notes evidence of rising distress, particularly among adolescents, and links between mental health challenges, educational participation and wider wellbeing. The Commissioner calls for ambitious reform, describing a significant opportunity to transform mental health services for future generations. Read the report here https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/resource/childrens-and-young-peoples-mental-health-services
Study Warns Some Schools are Becoming “No-Go Areas” for Children in Care
New research from the Universities of Exeter and Oxford suggests some schools and multi-academy trusts are increasingly reluctant to admit and support children in care, despite government policy giving them top priority for admissions. Drawing on evidence from 26 Virtual School Heads, the study found delays in admissions, exclusions and inflexible behaviour policies can leave vulnerable pupils struggling to access education. Researchers identified links between poor attendance, school moves, exclusions and SEND-related challenges. They warn an “exclusionary architecture” is undermining efforts to improve outcomes and call for stronger admission requirements and better specialist provision.
London Widens Lead in Educational Outcomes, New Report Finds
A new report for the South-West Social Mobility Commission warns that Britain’s opportunity gap is increasingly defined by geography, with London continuing to outperform other regions on key education measures for disadvantaged pupils. The analysis shows London has strengthened its lead in early years development, attendance and attainment for children eligible for free school meals, while many areas are still recovering from the pandemic. The South West remains one of England’s weakest-performing regions educationally, with high absence and exclusion rates. Researchers argue that tackling inequality requires place-based solutions alongside national policy to improve opportunities for young people wherever they live. Read the full report.
New Publication: A Mixed Methods Process Evaluation for the PRO-HIIT Intervention
Congratulations to CYPW Network members Alan Barker, Anna Adlam and colleagues on the publication of their paper Understanding the ‘how’ and ‘why’: A mixed methods process evaluation for the PRO-HIIT intervention.
The study evaluated the implementation of the PRO-HIIT programme, which incorporated short bouts of high-intensity interval training into school physical education lessons for Chinese adolescents. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research explored how and why the intervention worked, identifying both barriers and facilitators to successful delivery. Findings highlighted high participant engagement, positive feedback from students and teachers, and valuable insights for refining future school-based HIIT programmes.
Read more here https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0352772.
We would love to share your news here- please let us know about your publications and awards!
EVENTS
CYPW Network Seminar: Photovoice and Participatory Photography Project
Join us for an online seminar on Wednesday 28th October 12.00-13.00, featuring Tom Ingate (Falmouth University) and Luca Owenbridge (Health Determinants Research Collaboration Cornwall). The session will explore a pilot project using photovoice and participatory photography with young people aged 12-14 who may be at risk of becoming NEET. Presenters will discuss the project's development, ethics, partnerships, methodological challenges and early findings, highlighting how creative approaches can help young people share their experiences, aspirations and educational needs. It’s taking place via TEAMS LINK (Meeting ID: 381 581 279 713 285 Passcode: Zt64AK3N). Staff and students from all disciplines are welcome, please share.
CYPW Network Seminar with Professor Joni Holmes
We are delighted to welcome Professor Joni Holmes (University of East Anglia) for a hybrid seminar on Thursday 12th November 12:30-13:30, in Room G17, Mood Disorder Centre, Streatham Campus or via TEAMS LINK (Meeting ID: 399 705 630 317 984 Passcode: as6vS6qh).
In her talk, Beyond Diagnostic Labels: A Transdiagnostic Approach to Understanding and Supporting Children’s Learning Needs, Professor Holmes will explore how attention, working memory, language and behaviour interact across traditional diagnostic boundaries to influence learning. She will also introduce Learning Beyond the Label, an innovative classroom-based framework designed to help teachers identify and support diverse learning needs more effectively.
The seminar is open to all staff and students and will be followed by a pizza lunch. Please register here to attend.
Brain Health Across the Lifespan: Save the Date
The Exeter Brain Network and Children and Young People’s Wellbeing Network (CYPW) are hosting a joint workshop, Brain Health Across the Lifespan, on Wednesday 18th November 09:30-16:00 at the Positive Lights Project, Sidwell Street, Exeter.
This event will bring together researchers, clinicians and practitioners to explore shared interests in neurodevelopment, mental health, wellbeing and brain health from childhood through to older age. Through short talks, networking and discussion sessions, participants will identify opportunities for collaboration, public engagement and future funding applications.
Places are limited to 40 due to venue capacity. To register your interest, please complete the registration form CYPW & Exeter Brain Research Network Collaboration Workshop – Fill in form. Successful applicants will be notified shortly. For questions, contact researchnetworks@exeter.ac.uk.
Research Industry Networking Event: Transforming Ideas into Action
Early Career Researchers are invited to a free Industry Networking Event on Friday 25th September 10:00–13:00 at the Creative Quadrant, Streatham Campus. This exciting opportunity connects researchers with business professionals seeking research-informed solutions to real industry challenges. Funded by Research England, the event includes lunch, refreshments and travel support. Researchers working in sustainable practice, leadership and culture, marketing, digital transformation, or business strategy are encouraged to register their interest. Expand your professional network, explore potential collaborations and discover how your research can make an impact beyond academia. Read more and register.
Why Open Research Matters for Early Career Researchers
Want to understand the growing importance of open research and how it can benefit your career? Join Professor Gavin Buckingham for an online session exploring why open research has become a key part of the higher education landscape, the challenges it aims to address, and the opportunities it creates for researchers.
Whether you're already familiar with open research or completely new to the topic, this session will provide practical insights into how open research practices can strengthen job applications, fellowship bids and grant proposals.
The session takes place on Thursday 1st October 13.00-14.00 online and includes time for questions and discussion. Read more and register here.
Causal Inference in Four British Cohort Studies Webinar
Researchers interested in causal analysis using longitudinal data are invited to attend the Centre for Longitudinal Studies (CLS) webinar, Causal Inference in Four British Cohort Studies, on Wednesday 7th October 12.00-13.00 online.
The session will introduce key approaches to causal inference using data from four major UK cohort studies, including the 1958 National Child Development Study (NCDS), 1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70), Next Steps and Millennium Cohort Study (MCS). Topics will include causal research questions, sources of bias, Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs) and Quantitative Bias Analysis. The webinar is suitable for researchers at all career stages, and no prior experience with CLS data is required. Find more information and register via the CLS website.
Developing Business-Aware Academics: Researcher Visit to Mastek
Researchers and PhD students are invited to join a workplace visit and networking opportunity at Mastek UK Head Office, Reading, on Wednesday 7th October. Hosted through the Developing Business Aware Academics (DBAA) project, the event will explore the future of digital health identity, including UK health policy, healthcare regulation, clinician and patient perspectives, and international approaches to digital identity systems. Attendees will gain valuable insight into industry challenges, discuss their research with Mastek professionals, and identify opportunities for future collaboration. Participation is free, lunch is provided, and travel costs will be covered. Places are limited—sign up today.
Enhancing Therapy Through Digital Tools: Interactive Training Opportunity
In an increasingly digital world, therapists are embracing innovative tools to engage children, young people and families. This interactive course explores the integration of digital sandtrays and videogames into therapeutic practice, supporting both face-to-face and online work. Through hands-on activities, participants build confidence in using these approaches and reflect on ethical, creative application. Designed for systemic practitioners, family therapists and others working with families, the training offers practical skills and fresh insight. Join on Thursday 15th October 09:30–17:00, via Zoom. Book your place now or contact createprojects-cedar@exeter.ac.uk for further information
Hospital to Community: Early Prevention for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Registration is now open for the Centre for Developmental Adversity and Resilience (CeDAR) International Conference, Hospital to Community: Early Prevention for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, taking place on Tuesday 10th November 2026 in Glasgow. The event will bring together leading researchers, clinicians and practitioners to explore how communities can better support children's and young people's mental health.
Keynote speakers include Professor Vikram Patel (Harvard Medical School) and Professor Prathiba Chitsabesan (NHS England). Chaired by Professor Helen Minnis and Dr Ruchika Gajwani, the conference will showcase the latest evidence on prevention, intervention and service development. Places are limited, and delegates are encouraged to register early. Find out more and book your place via Eventbrite.
8th International Association for Youth Mental Health Conference 2026
The 8th International Association for Youth Mental Health Conference (IAYMH) is taking place from 23rd – 27th November at the Convention Centre, Dublin, Ireland. International Youth Mental Health Conference will explore strengthening youth mental health systems, elevating diverse voices, and driving action across research, practice, policy and lived experience. The week will include workshops, plenary, parallel exhibition and poster sessions. Visit the Conference website for details of the programme and to register https://iaymh2026.org/conference-programme/
From Harm to Hope 2027 Conference
Tickets are now available for the 12th National Self Harm & Suicide Prevention Conference, hosted by Harmless on Friday 26th February 2027 in Nottingham and online. The fully CPD-accredited event will bring together practitioners, researchers and professionals for a day of evidence-based presentations, workshops and networking focused on strengthening support for self-harm and suicide prevention. Organisers have confirmed Professor Rory O’Connor, internationally recognised suicide prevention researcher and Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Glasgow, as the first plenary speaker. All proceeds support Harmless' life-saving services. Further speaker and workshop announcements will follow in the coming months. Find out more and register here https://events.humanitix.com/from-harm-to-hope-self-harm-and-suicide-prevention-conference-2027
BABCP Annual Conference 2027 to be hosted at the University of Exeter
The British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) will hold its 2027 Annual Conference and Workshops at the University of Exeter from Tuesday 27th to Thursday 29th July 2027. The event will bring together practitioners, researchers and professionals working in cognitive behavioural therapy and related fields. Full conference details will be released in the coming months, with submissions expected to open in October 2026 and registration opening in December 2026. The conference offers an opportunity to share research, professional practice and developments in mental health and psychological therapies. Visit the BABCP website for updates and further information https://babcp.com/2027-annual-conference/.
Your event would look great here. Just email the details to cypwellbeing@exeter.ac.uk
OPPORTUNITIES
SHARE Network Launches to Advance School Mental Health Research
The new SHARE Network: School Mental Health and Addiction Research Excellence Network invites researchers, students and practitioners to collaborate on improving mental health outcomes in schools. Funded by the NIHR Mental Health Research Incubator, the network supports emerging leaders through knowledge exchange, partnership building and shared learning. Open to a wide range of contributors, including those with lived experience, it aims to strengthen research capacity and impact. Quarterly online meetings will feature expert insights and networking opportunities, with the first session on Tuesday 29th September focusing on building sustainable relationships with schools. Find out more here: https://mentalhealthresearch.org.uk/share/
BNA Survey on UKRI Grant Resubmission Policy Changes
The British Neuroscience Association (BNA) is seeking feedback from neuroscientists on recent changes to UKRI grant resubmission policies introduced by BBSRC, MRC and EPSRC. The revised rules place tighter restrictions on resubmitting unsuccessful applications and expect new submissions to be scientifically distinct from previously rejected proposals. The BNA is particularly keen to understand the implications for the neuroscience community, including Early Career Researchers. Responses will help inform the BNA's future engagement with UKRI and the wider research funding landscape. The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and closes on Sunday 4th October. Take part via the BNA survey link.
Engaged and Participatory Research Fund 2026-27 Open
Applications are open for the University of Exeter's 2026-27 Engaged and Participatory Research Fund, supported through Research England funding. The scheme supports projects that involve communities and partners throughout the research lifecycle, helping to build skills, confidence, networks, impact and future research opportunities. A total of £70,000 is available, with grants of £1,000 to £10,000 for projects co-created by University of Exeter researchers and external partners. Applications close at 10am on Monday 5th October via this form Engaged & Participatory Research Funding Application. Guidance, FAQs and application details are available on the Public Engagement with Research website : Funding | Public Engagement | University of Exeter.
Help Design Better Digital Physical Activity Support for Neurodiverse Young People
Researchers at the University of Exeter are recruiting participants for MOVE-MH, a new NIHR-funded project exploring how digital technologies and movement-based games can help make physical activity more enjoyable, accessible and meaningful for neurodiverse young people.
The team is seeking young people aged 16-25 with ASD, ADHD and/or DCD, as well as parents, carers and healthcare professionals, to take part in friendly group discussions. Participants will share their experiences, ideas and views on physical activity, wellbeing and digital technology, helping to shape future interventions from the outset.
The project aims to develop guidance for designing effective digital approaches that support physical activity and mental wellbeing. Participants will be compensated for their time. Complete the Expression of Interest form to find out more and register your interest.
Parent Carer Research Network: Connect With Lived Experience
Researchers working in children and young people's mental health can now access support through the Parent Carer Research Network, a national initiative designed to strengthen parent and carer involvement in research. The network helps researchers recruit parents and carers as participants, PPIE contributors or research collaborators, while promoting meaningful, safe and accessible involvement throughout the research process.
The network also provides practical guidance, application support and a co-produced Guide for Researchers. By bringing diverse parent and carer perspectives into research, the initiative aims to improve the relevance, quality and impact of studies focused on children's and young people's mental health. Find out more on the network website or contact parentcarerresearchnetwork@psych.ox.ac.uk.
New NIHR SPHR Public Mental Health Programme Webinar Series
The NIHR School for Public Health Research (SPHR) Public Mental Health Programme is launching a new webinar series, beginning on Monday 5th October 11.30-13.00. The first session will focus on school-based mental health interventions and feature presentations from The WisH Project, exploring the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of whole-school mental health approaches, and Liam Spencer (Newcastle University), who will discuss research on early and preventative mental health interventions for children and young people.
The webinar offers an opportunity to hear about the latest public mental health research and its implications for policy and practice. Further sessions are planned for January and April 2027. Register now to attend https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/750a0028-dff1-4d76-a81e-52ac0cb0657e@b2e47f30-cd7d-4a4e-a5da-b18cf1a4151b
CYPW Network Partner Spotlight: Boogie Mites
Boogie Mites, a CYPW Network external member, is seeking an academic collaborator to evaluate its innovative Music and Wellbeing programme with an Exeter-based nursery group beginning in March 2027. Drawing on neuroscience research and pilot project evaluations, the programme uses daily music activities to support children's cognitive development, wellbeing, social skills and emotional regulation.
The training package combines digital resources, onsite support and a wellbeing framework for educators, helping staff understand and respond to the needs of both children and colleagues. Boogie Mites believes the approach has the potential to improve school readiness, strengthen parent engagement and support staff wellbeing. Contact Sue Newman sue@boogiemites.co.uk to find out more.
Images of Research Competition 2026 Open
Calling all Early Career and Postgraduate Researchers! The University of Exeter’s Images of Research Competition 2026 is now open, offering a fantastic opportunity to showcase your research through a powerful image and a short, jargon-free description. The competition helps researchers develop valuable skills in communicating complex ideas to non-specialist audiences and has attracted hundreds of entries in previous years. Selected entries will be exhibited online and at the Forum on Streatham Campus, with winners promoted through University social media channels. The closing date is Monday 5th October. Find inspiration, guidance and entry details at www.exeter.ac.uk/imagesofresearch.
ESRC React Award Open
The UKRI Economic and Social Research Council React Awards offer a timely funding opportunity for UK-based researchers to deliver rapid, policy-relevant insights. With a total fund of £1.5 million, grants range from £50,000 to £100,000 and support projects lasting up to six months. Designed to address urgent challenges, the scheme requires collaboration with partners capable of implementing findings within six months.
Read more here: https://www.ukri.org/opportunity/esrc-react-awards-pilot/. Applications are open until Thursday 8th October 2026.
New Course: Leading Educational Equity – From Principles to Practice
In a time of growing inequalities, school leaders are seeking practical ways to improve outcomes for pupils from under-resourced backgrounds. This new two-day, in-person course on Thursday 15th October 2026 and Thursday 11th March 2027, Leading Educational Equity: From Principles to Practice, is led by the UK’s first Professor of Social Mobility, Lee Elliot-Major OBE, alongside Anne-Marie Sim and Beth Brooks, co-authors of the Equity Scorecard.
Designed for school leaders ready to move from equity intent to implementation, the course combines research-informed insight, real-world case studies and practical planning. Participants will develop an actionable Equity Leadership Plan tailored to their own context.
Find out more and register here https://www.exeter.ac.uk/faculties/hass/education/cpd/equity-leadership/.
Entrepreneurial Researcher Programme: Applications Open
Interested in increasing the impact of your research or exploring commercial opportunities arising from your work? Applications are now open for The Entrepreneurial Researcher Programme (ERP). The programme supports participants to develop ideas that address real-world challenges, explore potential markets, engage with external stakeholders, and refine solutions with support from expert mentors. It is open to Exeter staff from all faculties, departments and career stages, as well as postgraduate researchers with supervisor approval. The next cohort will take place across two in-person workshop days at the Exeter Innovation Hub on Wednesday 4th November and Thursday 10th December 2026. Find out more and apply now.
Help a Young Person Realise Their Potential
The Empowering Girls Programme is seeking volunteer mentors for the next academic year. The programme matches Year 9 girls across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay with female role models who can help build confidence, raise aspirations and support future education and career choices.
Since launching in 2019, the initiative has supported more than 600 girls through one-to-one mentoring, workplace visits, skills workshops and inspiring talks. No previous mentoring experience is required, just a commitment to encouraging and empowering young people. Mentors play a vital role in helping participants explore opportunities, challenge stereotypes and develop the confidence to achieve their goals. Find out more and get involved https://www.dptcareershub.co.uk/projects/empowering-girls/
NIHR Funding Opportunity: Transforming Children and Young People’s Health
The NIHR Programme Grants for Applied Research (PGfAR) is open, inviting ambitious projects to improve children and young people’s (CYP) health and wellbeing. Delivered in partnership with the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, this call supports transformative, multi-sector research addressing key challenges such as inequalities, mental health, and neurodevelopment. Awards typically range from £2–3.5 million over 4–6 years. The two-stage process begins with an outline application closing on Wednesday 2nd December 2026. Aligned with UK Government health priorities, the scheme aims to build sustainable partnerships and research capacity in this critical area. Read more here https://www.nihr.ac.uk/funding/programme-grants-applied-research-october-2026/2026345-2026346-2026347
If you are interested in attending a CYPW Network meeting to share ideas and support network-wide collaborations on this call, please email cypwellbeing@exeter.ac.uk
Research Collaboration Opportunity: Resilient Young Minds
Resilient Young Minds (RYM) CIC is seeking early career researchers interested in evaluation and research collaborations focused on patient benefit, social return on investment (SROI), and implementation science. Founded by former GP Dr Lucy Loveday, RYM delivers a clinically informed, nature-based wellbeing programme for disadvantaged young adults aged 18–25 yrs, helping participants build connections with themselves, others, nature, and their communities. Following a successful pilot in North Dartmoor, the programme will expand across Torbay in autumn 2026. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research and support the development of nature-based care within the NHS. Visit www.resilientyoungminds.org.uk for more information and watch this short film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QikvvBtc-O8
PenCarrie Foundation Funding for Young People in Devon
The PenCarrie Foundation is offering funding to support charities and community organisations working with children and young people aged 0–21 across Devon. Grants focus on helping young people overcome challenges, build confidence and access opportunities, with funding available for initiatives such as family support, essential items, wellbeing services, education, and youth activities. Grants typically range from £2,000 to £25,000, with opportunities for longer-term support. Eligible applicants include charities, CICs and social enterprises. Applications are reviewed quarterly in January, April, July and October. Visit the PenCarrie Foundation website https://pencarriefoundation.org/ for full details and application guidance.
UKRI Policy Fellowships 2026: DfE Understanding Special Educational Needs Fellowship
The Department for Education is offering a UKRI Policy Fellowship focused on improving understanding of special educational needs (SEN) to support evidence-based reform of the SEND system. Based within the SEND and Alternative Provision analytical unit, the fellowship will explore the complexity, levels and intersectionality of SEN, helping shape interventions that improve outcomes for children and young people. Open to early and mid-career researchers in social science, education, policy and related disciplines, the opportunity combines research, analysis and policy engagement. The fellowship is expected to begin in May 2027 and includes flexible hybrid working arrangements. Read more here.
Support Research on Young People’s Views of Social Exclusion
We are pleased to support Masters student Hannah Morrison’s research exploring how adolescents make moral judgements about social exclusion and whether these views differ in online and face-to-face situations.
Parents and carers are invited to provide consent for young people aged 11–18 to take part in a short online survey. Participants will read three scenarios and answer questions about their views, with the survey taking approximately 10–15 minutes to complete on any device.
Please help us spread the word and encourage participation. Further information and the survey link are available here: https://exe.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eWFd14q2lki2RZY
Environmental Justice in Educational Research Network
The Environmental Justice in Educational Research Network (EJERN) brings together educators, researchers and community partners committed to advancing equity and sustainability through education. The network explores how formal, informal and community-based learning can address pressing social, cultural and environmental challenges. By connecting research with practice, EJERN fosters collaboration, dialogue and shared projects that promote fairer, more sustainable futures. Activities include talks, workshops and partnerships across sectors. New members are warmly welcomed to join and contribute. Visit their website: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/research/centres/transdisciplinary-education/ejrn/
Furthering Community Connections Across the Region
Civic University Agreements (CUAs) are formal partnerships between the University and local anchor institutions that support regional priorities in health, wellbeing, and education. Exeter now has three CUAs with Exeter, Cornwall, and Devon & Torbay, each of which focuses on co-designed action plans to address shared societal challenges.
As part of the Devon County Civic University Agreement’s Thriving Futures for Young People strand of work, the team are currently mapping University of Exeter research against the Devon County Council (DCC)’ s new Brighter Futures Strategy which aims to increase the number of young people in education, employment or training across the county. The Thriving Futures for Young People network includes representatives from across DCC, UoE, Exeter College and the VCSE sector. If you would like to join this network, with a view of doing research together, or putting evidence into practice, please contact Lindsey Anderson (Regional Engagement manager).
Let the World Know You're a Member of the CYP Wellbeing @ Exeter Research Network: Label Your Profile
As a member of the CYP Wellbeing Network you can update your university profile to add a ‘label’ which shows that you are a member. Adding this label will provide you with increased visibility (internally and externally) as an Exeter Research Network member, as it will enable your profile to be shared on the network’s online membership lists and search tools.
Adding a network label is quick and easy and there are instructions here. Please note that this label is not linked to your communications preferences for the network, and will not be removed if you unsubscribe from mailing lists.
Showcase Network Support: Tag CYPW Network in WorkTribe
If your project benefits from your membership of this network, for example through funding, advice, collaboration, or engagement, tagging Exeter Research Networks in Worktribe highlights the network's value, leading to more support and growth, ensures recognition and further strengthens the network's capacity to assist its members.
This is very simple to do and will enable us to track the bids and projects which may arise directly or indirectly as a result of network membership. Very brief guidance is available here. Thank you.
RESOURCES
CYPW Network Seminar: Supporting Learners with SEND
Thank you to everyone who attended the CYP Wellbeing @Exeter Research Network seminar, From Research to Classroom Practice: Supporting Learners with SEND, delivered by Professor Jo Van Herwegen (UCL) on 9th July. The session explored how evidence from educational neuroscience can inform inclusive classroom practice and highlighted practical tools from the MetaSENse project to support learners with SEND. We were delighted to welcome colleagues and students from across disciplines and appreciated the engaging discussion and shared insights. For those who were unable to attend, or who would like to revisit the session, the recording is available here: https://vimeo.com/1212323242/b9a047cb9e?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci Thank you for your continued support of the Network.
Nature and Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing Workshop
On 2nd July we hosted a successful Nature and Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing workshop at Positive Lights, Exeter. Around 40 participants attended, including researchers from a wide range of disciplines and service providers delivering nature-based health and education programmes across the South West. The day featured presentations from academics and practitioners, followed by collaborative roundtable discussions on inequalities in access to nature, education, health and social care, climate change, and knowledge exchange. Participants highlighted the need for stronger cross-sector collaboration, improved evidence of impact, and greater inclusion of underrepresented communities. The workshop generated significant enthusiasm for future networking, research collaboration, policy engagement, and funding opportunities. A digital Mural resource and summary of the discussions is here https://tinyurl.com/wnp33nmr, with thanks to Harriet Hunt for developing these!
CYPW Network Seminar: PANS PANDAS Unveiled
Thank you to everyone who joined our CYP Wellbeing @Exeter Research Network seminar, PANS PANDAS Unveiled: Headline Findings from an Evidence and Gap Map. Members of the Isca Evidence Research Group shared insights from their NIHR-commissioned project exploring the evidence base around PANS and PANDAS, including findings from the completed Evidence and Gap Map and updates on ongoing systematic reviews of lived experiences and treatment effectiveness.
The presentation highlighted the importance of increasing awareness, strengthening the evidence base and involving young people, families, clinicians and charities throughout the research process.
Resources from the seminar, including the presentation slides and Evidence and Gap Map, are available here https://www.exeter.ac.uk/events/research/networks/cypwellbeingnetwork/PANS
Supporting Adolescence and Mental Health – New CYPW Resources
CYPW Network members Doretta Caramaschi and Cassandra Lowe are part of the Pathline Network, bringing together researchers, families and young people to explore pathways to mental health. It’s funded by GW4 which is a collaboration between the University of Bath, University of Bristol, University of Cardiff and University of Exeter. The network has just launched a website https://www.pathwaystochildmentalhealth.com/ showcasing current projects and activities, including new illustrated resources for parents and caregivers on puberty and mental health. They would love your help in sharing these resources widely. If you would like to get involved – as a researcher, as a parent or caregiver, or if your children are interested in joining the advisory group – please get in touch d.caramaschi@exeter.ac.uk
CYPW Network Seminar: UCL’s Child Trauma and Recovery Group – Slides Available
The CYP Wellbeing @Exeter Research Network recently hosted an online seminar showcasing research from University College London’s Child Trauma and Recovery Group. The session explored the mental health and wellbeing of care‑experienced young people. Dr Eva A Sprecher introduced key issues and research gaps, followed by Havovi Khareghat, who presented findings from the ReThink project on critical life transitions. Charlotte Ransom outlined the MyVoice project, trialling a new mental health assessment approach. The seminar offered valuable insights for staff and students across disciplines. Slides from the session are now available: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/events/research/networks/cypwellbeing/cypw_network_seminar_ucls_child_trauma_and_recovery_group.php
Eating Disorder Services for Children and Young People: National Guidance
New national guidance from NHS England sets out how integrated care boards (ICBs) and providers should design collaborative, joined-up eating disorder services for children and young people (CYP). The guidance prioritises early intervention, helping CYP access support before disordered eating becomes more severe. It calls for services that are easier to access, delivered closer to home, and responsive to the needs of families and carers. By strengthening local pathways and partnership working, the guidance aims to improve outcomes, reduce delays, and ensure consistent, high-quality care across all areas. Read more here https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/eating-disorder-services
Planning for Meaningful Public Engagement SharePoint Resources
A SharePoint page planning for meaningful public engagement, is now available to support Exeter researchers in shaping impactful public engagement. The page walks you through 10 key questions to help you clarify your aims, identify audiences and partners, and plan activities with purpose. Public engagement is a two-way process that enhances research by incorporating public insights while offering communities meaningful benefits. The page explores motivations, potential impacts, routes to reach participants, and how engagement connects to wider societal issues. It also highlights practical tools, including logic models and evaluation approaches, to strengthen your engagement ideas.
Funding for Impact, Grant Applications and Beyond
Funding for Impact: Grant Applications and Beyond, is an Impact Essentials training resource from the Impact@Exeter team.
This 70-minute training, delivered in bite-sized sections, explores the impact funding landscape, strategies for securing funds, and tips for writing compelling, impact-focused proposals. It also dispels common funding myths and highlights how to include evaluation and evidence activities.
Perfect for all career stages, this flexible resource is designed for self-paced learning. Access the training and resources here on the Impact@Exeter area of the RIME SharePoint site.
Reputation Accelerator: Amplifying Your Research
Your research deserves to be seen, understood and valued. The University of Exeter’s Reputation Accelerator supports Exeter staff in raising the visibility and impact of their work, helping you reach peers, policymakers, funders and global audiences. Complementing the Research Toolkit and the advice on SharePoint, it focuses on how to communicate your research effectively – from strengthening your online profile and sharing work confidently on social platforms, to engaging with media, creating compelling visuals, and maximising conferences and events. With practical guidance and accessible resources, the Reputation Accelerator gives you the tools to build your profile, grow your influence and amplify research that contributes to a Positive Future.
Explore PIVOT-RP: get personalised alerts for research funding opportunities
Research funding opportunities can be found on Pivot-RP. As part of ongoing work to develop university-wide support two curated Pivot-RP searches have been set up for fellowship applicants and active fellows that can be readily accessed and tailored to individual's needs. Guidance on how to do this can be found on the RIME Sharepoint site.
As part of adopting Pivot-RP the implementation team want to understand how colleagues are using the database and usefulness of it for their research work.
Discover Exeter-facing Funding Opportunities with Funding Finder
Funding opportunities can also be found using the Funding Finder platform developed by Andy Cunliffe at the University of Exeter, which signposts thousands of funding opportunities for research, fieldwork, conferences, and exchanges, relevant to individuals at all levels from undergraduates to senior academics. With searchable listings of awards from £100 to £10 million, it's designed to support global collaboration and research engagement. Please use it and share it with your networks. There have been many funding successes across the University community, more awards are being added frequently, and this tool is in use across 110 countries.
Thank you for reading our newsletter. Find out more about the Children and Young People's @ Exeter Wellbeing Network.
