Biography – Emma Blackwell

Biography

I have dedicated my professional career to youth justice, building extensive experience from frontline practice through to senior management. Beginning as a Youth Justice Practitioner, I developed a strong commitment to supporting children and young people to achieve positive outcomes, while ensuring that the voices and needs of victims remain central to effective practice.

I am currently a Manager within Gateshead Youth Justice Service, where I lead a highly skilled and committed team of Youth Justice Practitioners. My approach is grounded in Child First principles, with a passion for promoting the rights of children, recognising their strengths, and creating opportunities for them to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.

Throughout my career, I have been committed to developing collaborative and effective partnerships across a wide range of agencies. I have established excellent working relationships with colleagues and partners in education, social care, health, police, courts, and the voluntary sector, enabling a coordinated approach to meeting the complex needs of children, families, and victims.

I am passionate about delivering high-quality services that balance public protection, victim needs, and positive outcomes for children, while fostering a culture of professionalism, innovation, and continuous improvement within the teams I lead.