As a social researcher Darren’s interests focus on exclusion, identity, labelling and social divisions in urban society; asking questions in a policy context of current discourses on social cohesion, the law and social control as experienced by ‘excluded groups’.

Darren’s background is in community development work, with a particular focus on young people and equality. His own life experiences have moulded his passion to work towards a fairer society, and throughout his career has had the privilege of working with some extremely talented young people who continue to inspire future generations.

Darren’s role at the CLA affords him the opportunity to bring his community development, research and networking skills to an organisation that works to benefit care leavers. As a care leaver himself, Darren works with care leavers across the country in building a strong, vibrant and unified care leaver network that has an increasingly stronger voice and influence, campaigning and advocating on care leaver issues across the life course.