Research
You will find a complete range of our monographs, muti-authored and edited works including peer-reviewed, original scholarly research across the social sciences and aligned disciplines. We publish long and short form research and you can browse the complete Bristol University Press and Policy Press archive.
Policy Press also publishes policy reviews and polemic work which aim to challenge policy and practice in certain fields. These books have a practitioner in mind and are practical, accessible in style, as well as being academically sound and referenced.
This chapter challenges traditional narratives that portray children as apolitical actors, limiting their engagement to civic duty and character development. It advocates for recognising children as active citizens, capable of participating in community organising and advocacy. Despite challenges, organisations like Citizens UK are empowering children to address societal issues. Genuine youth participation not only benefits young citizens but also transforms adult perspectives on citizenship. From ethical consumerism to direct activism, children are contributing to social change through diverse strategies. Therefore, I conclude by arguing that increased funding in community organising is crucial for nurturing children’s activism and amplifying their voices. Collaborative efforts among governments, philanthropists and civil society are needed to embrace children as change makers and foster a more equitable society.
Drawing on interviews from 40 civil society leaders championing children’s philanthropic citizenship, this chapter underscores a pivotal juncture in philanthropy, emphasising the potential of children as dynamic contributors to civic engagement and social change. I argue that by acknowledging children as proactive agents within the philanthropic landscape, a transformative shift is possible. Philanthropy stands poised to either perpetuate traditional paradigms, relegating children to the periphery, or to pivot towards comprehensive engagement, nurturing children’s philanthropic citizenship. To actualise this vision, I argue that philanthropic funders must revisit funding models, operational modalities and priorities to focus on children’s inclusion and empowerment. Through dedicated investment in initiatives that amplify children’s voices, fortify their agency and cultivate their leadership capacities, philanthropy can forge a more equitable, compassionate future. This chapter advocates for a child-centred ethos, propelling philanthropy towards a more democratic and participative mode of operation.
This chapter examines the pivotal role of schools in fostering philanthropy and civic engagement among children and young people, focusing on moving beyond monetary giving to instil deeper, more meaningful involvement in addressing social issues. Drawing on both English and US perspectives, the chapter urges a shift towards comprehensive approaches that address root causes and nurture critical thinking. The inclusion of external civil society organisations and the reconceptualisation of teachers as civic leaders are proposed as critical factors. Highlighting The Giving Square as a groundbreaking model, the chapter emphasises its focus on intrinsic motivation, meaningful connections and diverse contributions, ensuring universal accessibility, and fostering responsibility and community connection. Overall, schools are recognised as vital catalysts for cultivating philanthropy and civic engagement, necessitating a more inclusive civic education landscape.
This chapter critically examines the transition from kindness to collective approaches, including allyship and solidarity in nurturing philanthropic citizenship among children. While kindness is a valuable foundation, its commodification in the digital age and its tendency to overlook systemic issues pose challenges. Through case studies like Family Volunteering Club and St Lawrence School’s Agents of Change programme, grassroots initiatives demonstrate empowering children for broader societal impact. Ethical concerns arise, exemplified by MrBeast’s philanthropy, highlighting the need for critical philanthropy education. Shifting children towards solidarity and allyship is essential for justice-oriented citizenship, emphasising familial influence and the role of literature in reshaping narratives. Ultimately, balancing individual kindness with systemic change fosters inclusive dialogue and cultivates equitable philanthropic citizenship.
This chapter critically examines the transformative potential of child-led fundraising, emphasising its role in empowering children and fostering critical engagement with social issues. Drawing on qualitative research with over 150 young children, it demonstrates how such initiatives cultivate valuable life skills, empathy and community bonds. However, it also scrutinises media representations, revealing a dichotomy between exceptionalism and marginalisation. I highlight that while some children are lauded as heroes, others are overlooked or co-opted for political agendas, perpetuating adult-centric narratives and stifling children’s agency. The chapter calls for a re-evaluation of media portrayals to embrace a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of children’s roles in philanthropy and civic engagement, advocating for a shift towards equitable and participatory models of citizenship that empower all children as change makers.
This chapter critically examines the profound impact of youth movements like the Scouts and the Woodcraft Folk on shaping children’s citizenship and character in society. Through a detailed exploration of UK Scouts, it reveals how these organisations serve as crucial arenas for instilling principles of responsible citizenship and moral initiative. While the Scouts align themselves with governmental agendas, questions arise regarding their role in societal control and perpetuation of historical legacies, including colonialism and militarism. Despite challenges, I argue alternative movements like the Woodcraft Folk potentially offer a more inclusive and progressive vision of youth engagement, emphasising cooperative learning and social justice. The chapter concludes by advocating for critical reflection and the creation of empowering spaces that foster informed, resilient and socially responsible citizens, whether through traditional scouting or platforms like the Woodcraft Folk.
In a world grappling with challenges and opportunities, the pivotal role of children in philanthropy often goes unrecognised. This introductory chapter introduces the core arguments of this book, challenging the prevailing narrative by advocating for children’s inclusion in philanthropic conversations and decision-making processes. It critiques conventional notions of charity versus justice-oriented philanthropy, arguing for a shift towards a framework of philanthropic citizenship, and presents an overview of the chapters contained within the book.
This chapter challenges the prevailing narratives on children’s philanthropy, emphasising the need for a transformative approach. While traditional views focus on instilling benevolence, they often overlook systemic issues, hindering children’s development as engaged citizens. Drawing on multidisciplinary literature, this chapter explores middle childhood as pivotal for fostering enduring prosocial behaviour and delves into the philosophical foundations of philanthropy. Critiquing Western models, it advocates for a shift towards critical citizenship education, empowering children as active agents for social change. By embracing a justice-oriented perspective, it proposes redefining philanthropic citizenship to encompass activism and collective action. It concludes by urging further exploration into this vital yet overlooked realm of research and practice.
