Who we are

We’re a cross-university institute formed of academics and doctoral students collaborating with children, policymakers, practitioners, and professionals in the children’s workforce. We advocate and act for children and young people up to age 24, especially those who are vulnerable, disadvantaged or at risk.

Our ambition

We aim to do more than understand the changing worlds of children and childhood. Our goal is to make a real difference for young people and their families in the UK and internationally by:

  • collaborating with regional, national and international organisations.
  • actively supporting policy ambitions to improve the experiences, outcomes and futures of children and young people nationally and across Greater Manchester.
  • conducting world-leading research to inform policymaking, professional practice, and service delivery.
  • engaging with our community of children and young people to improve their lives.

We’re aligned with Manchester’s ambition to be a globally recognised city-region that enhances children’s and young people’s experiences and opportunities. We’re also fully aligned with UK government priorities and policies for children.

  • A group of nurses and doctors working together at a table

    Our research

    Explore the research we’re doing to inform policy and practice to improve children’s futures.

    Find out more
  • A childcare professional sat with two young children colouring in.

    Work with us

    Become a member of the Institute for Children's Futures and help us improve the lives of children and young people.

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  • Young children sat in front of a laptop in a classroom being helped by a teacher.

    Community engagement

    Discover how we use our knowledge and expertise to deliver important services to children and young people.

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I’m extremely proud of our institute. With 100 researchers from Manchester Met, and members from across the world, we work collaboratively to improve the experiences and opportunities for children and young people. Our research and engagement inform policy, practice and service delivery regionally, nationally and internationally.
Professor Saul Becker
Founding Director of the Institute for Children’s Futures and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Health and Education.
I’m extremely proud of our institute. With 100 researchers from Manchester Met, and members from across the world, we work collaboratively to improve the experiences and opportunities for children and young people. Our research and engagement inform policy, practice and service delivery regionally, nationally and internationally.
Professor Saul Becker
Founding Director of the Institute for Children’s Futures and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Health and Education.