- About postgraduate study
- Part-time study
- Courses
- Order a Prospectus
- Faculties & Departments
- UK students
- EU students
- International Students
- How to apply for your course
- Handy Hints
- Open Events
- Student Recruitment
- Money Matters
- About Us
26 Jul 2011 16:06:06
Local councillor and MBE decorated manager at the Safer Luton Partnership (SLP) Joan Bailey still finds time to study for a phD in Youth Justice at the University of Bedfordshire.
Joan first studied at the University in 1995 when she did a degree in Youth and Community Studies. Her studies were to set her on a pathway that has rewarded her with an MBE.
She said: “The support of the tutors was great. When I started out, I was a mature student with a young family and the University understood my other commitments and that I needed to be flexible.”
Last year the Youth Justice Board nominated Joan for the award for her services for youth justice improvement. She said: “It felt odd to be singled out for something that so many other people work hard on. It was a real honour but more testament to the hard work of the amazing team at the SLP.”
Joan works full-time as Director at the SLP, where she has developed the youth unit and has taken on many student youth workers for placements, as well as suggesting some of her staff undertake further study at the University.
“I’m thrilled that I and the SLP can work in partnership with the University to ensure that new youth and social workers gain relevant experience.
“I had such a positive experience at the University that I wanted to be able to offer the same kind of support for the next generation. If I can help the next wave of youth workers - that would be amazing.”
Joan also
uses what she’s learnt on her course for her work as a local councillor, where
she especially focuses on community safety and youth justice in the Lewsey ward
of Luton. She was a key member in Luton’s recent Community Cohesion report.
The SLP celebrated its 20th birthday last year, and Joan couldn’t be prouder. She said: “I’m so proud of the team and the amazing work they do. I’m especially pleased with our ‘cohesion team’ – a cutting-edge team of youth workers that can be called upon by the council or police in tricky situations.”
Latest news» 2011» July» Youth justice expert looks back at University roots
