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Key research findings

Our research highlights bridge the gap between research and practice. We provide short, accessible summaries of our research studies and evaluation projects in various formats.

Explore our key research findings which help to bridge the gap between research and practice.

We provide short, accessible summaries of our research studies and evaluation projects in various online formats, such as web, podcast, blog or video.

If you would like to hear about our latest research, resources and learning opportunities on a monthly basis, please sign up to the Anna Freud Learning Network – a free national network for those working to transform the mental health of children and young people.

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  • Evidence Based Practice Unit (EBPU)

    Every year, we publish an overview of the Evidence Based Practice Unit's (EBPU) key research findings in child mental health.

    Read moreEvidence Based Practice Unit (EBPU)

  • UK Trauma Council (UKTC)

    The UK Trauma Council (UKTC) research round up series helps to bridge the gap between academic researchers and busy professionals working with children and young people.

    Read moreUK Trauma Council (UKTC)

  • Coronavirus Research

    The emerging evidence series is a collaboration between the Evidence Based Practice Unit  (EBPU) and the Child Outcomes Research Consortium (CORC).

    Read moreCoronavirus Research

  • The Parent-Toddler Group Adoption Project

    At Anna Freud, we run Parent-Toddler Groups, which are aimed at strengthening parent-toddler relationships. 

    Read moreThe Parent-Toddler Group Adoption Project

  • Child Attachment and Psychological Therapies Research (ChAPTRe)

    ChAPTRe is a partnership between Anna Freud and UCL and research unit led by Professor Nick Midgley.

    Read moreChild Attachment and Psychological Therapies Research (ChAPTRe)

  • Child in Mind

    We've produced a series of expert podcasts to help parents understand and manage child and family mental health problems.

    Read moreChild in Mind

  • Transformation Seminar Series

    The Transformation Seminars are a series of free seminars open to the public. 

    Read moreTransformation Seminar Series

  • The "So what?" Seminar Series

    The “So what?” seminar series aims to build the bridge between evidence and practice in child mental health by asking "So what does this mean for policy and practice?"

    Read moreThe "So what?" Seminar Series

Other research

Insights from North West England: a spotlight on six areas of children's mental health

Nationally, there is a significant gap between children and young people’s need for mental health support, and the help available. This report was produced following a period of cross-sector discussions with colleagues and communities in North West England. It spotlights six areas of children's lives – six among many – where more collective action is needed:

  • The gap between aspiration and capacity in delivering mentally healthy schools and 

    further education (FE) colleges. 

  • The gap in services for families who have experienced trauma.

  • The gap in support for fathers in the perinatal period.

  • The gap in effective support for young people in complex contexts or with multiple difficulties.

  • The gap in meaningful participation.

  • The gap between the research and the help that’s offered.

View the full report