Chris Mccarthy

This presentation explores the importance of cross-agency collaboration when supporting children and young people involved in the justice system, particularly those engaging with multiple services including child protection, law enforcement, prosecution services and community support and/or volunteer involving organisations.

The session will examine how strong communication pathways, early engagement and coordinated trauma-informed approaches can positively influence a child's experience leading up to and during court processes.

Drawing on frontline experience within the victim and witness support sector, the presentation will explore practical approaches to strengthening collaborative practice, improving continuity of support and reducing unnecessary stress for children navigating complex legal environments.

Topics will include:
- the importance of early and consistent engagement
- trauma-informed communication across agencies
- role clarity and coordinated support pathways
- reducing barriers to effective collaboration
- and building child-centred approaches across systems
Attendees will gain insight into how stronger interagency collaboration and relationship-based practice can improve support outcomes for vulnerable children and young people involved in justice processes.
The session will be relevant to professionals working across child protection, justice, education, health and community support sectors.