University of Cumbria appoints new Professor of Practice

The Chief Executive of Carlisle Youth Zone (CYZ), Taylor-Beswick, will join the University's institute of health.

Her role as Professor of Practice recognises her eminence in the field of youth work, and she will use her wealth of experience to further the university’s programmes.

Professors of Practice are given the honorary role for two initial years.

The post enhances the curriculum, experience, and environment provided for both students and staff.

In particular, Taylor-Beswick's appointment will strengthen the connection and visibility of youth work, children's rights, and participation with and alongside the University.

Taylor-Beswick's involvement with the University coincides with National Youth Work Week.

She sees this as an opportunity to better platform the work around youth co-research, health inequalities, arts and participation, and youth and society.

Taylor-Beswick is no stranger to the University of Cumbria.

She graduated from St Martins College, now part of the University, with a diploma in youth & community development studies and a BSc (Hons) in sport & exercise science.

She is also a qualified social worker with a master's in the field.

Before joining CYZ, Taylor-Beswick held several youth work roles and managed a countywide Children’s Rights service.

The youth work expert expressed her excitement about her new role.

Caroline said: "I am honoured to have been invited to join the university as a professor of practice and I look forward to working with colleagues in the institute of health."

"What motivates me most of all by an appointment such as this, is the opportunities it provides to specifically highlight the contributions and impact that youth work has on the lives of children and young people, and to raise recognition and respect for children and young people as rights-holders in our society".

Outside the University, Taylor-Beswick volunteers as a trustee for the Boingboing Foundation and co-led the world's first Resilience Revolution in Blackpool.

About the Resilience Revolution, Taylor-Beswick said: "the Resilience Revolution adopted the phrase ‘Nothing about us, without us’, which has its origins in the disability rights movement.

"It really resonates with me".

"So often young people are spoken about and done to, and I don’t believe this should be the case – championing and demonstrating research and practice which adopts rights-based participation approaches will continue to be a key focus for my work."

The University of Cumbria's Institute of Health offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various health disciplines and plans to launch a level six apprenticeship in youth work in September 2024, subject to validation.

Welcoming the new addition, University of Cumbria Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Brian Webster-Henderson said: "We’re delighted to have Caroline join our team as a Professor of Practice.

"Her experience is extensive as is her expertise in strategic leadership.

"With that, and her passion for supporting the development of children and young people, we know that this collaboration will positively help the university in its mission to transform lives and livelihoods for generations to come."