Research

At Kaizen Safeguarding, we believe research should be grounded in a commitment to ethical, survivor-centred and trauma-informed practice. We believe the voices of survivors, professionals and academics should be reflected in research. We engage with safeguarding-related research across multiple contexts, drawing on both qualitative and quantitative approaches to deepen understanding.

We are committed to providing access to high-quality, practice-based work, including research we have co-authored with others, alongside wider contributions from across the safeguarding sector. Our research approach is rooted in accessibility and integrity, using open access materials wherever possible, while also contributing to research ourselves. We actively signpost the work of others, recognising the importance of collective learning in strengthening safeguarding culture.

Bespoke research services

Kaizen Safeguarding offers bespoke research services, supporting organisations to explore safeguarding themes, evaluate practice and generate meaningful insight.

Our research is shaped by the belief that evidence should not sit in isolation, but should inform safer systems, better decision-making and improved outcomes for children, adults at risk and victim-survivors. We are currently involved in an exciting new research project launching this autumn, further contributing to the development of knowledge and practice in safeguarding. Watch this space.

If you would like to find out more about our research or explore how we can support your organisation, contact us today.

Recommended reading

  • Oakley. L, Lafferty. M & McFarlane. L. (2022). Child Abuse Review. Volume 31, issue 5 ‍

    Click here to read https://doi.org/10.1002/car.2767

  • Lafferty. M, Humphreys. J, Jackson. K. McFarlane. L & Cartwright. T (2026). Journal of Pastoral Psychology https://doi.org/10.1007/s11089-025-01299-z