A guest blog from Robin Alexander, the Global Data Fellows Programme Manager at Childlight.
The Childlight Global Data Fellows (GDF) Residency is a flagship initiative of Childlight – a Global Child Safety Institute. Founded by the Human Dignity Foundation and hosted by The University of Edinburgh, Childlight uses the power of data to drive sustainable, co-ordinated action to safeguard children. The residency, which took place from February 17 – 28th 2025, brought together a diverse group of child protection professionals from around the world to collaborate, network, and share expertise on the issue of child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA). This year’s theme, ‘A Public Health Approach to CSEA’, emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in safeguarding children globally.
Fostering Global Collaboration and Expertise
The GDF Residency is designed to advance CSEA knowledge and create long-lasting connections among professionals working with child protection data. Participants engaged in intensive workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities to support them in driving CSEA prevention and response strategies. By bringing together experts from diverse backgrounds, the residency fosters a global network of leaders dedicated to improving child safety policies and interventions.
The Binks Hub Collaboration: Exploring Creative Research Methods
A key highlight of the 2025 residency was the collaboration with the Binks Hub, led by Dr Autumn Roesch-Marsh. Dr Roesch-Marsh facilitated two engaging sessions aimed at demonstrating the power of creative methodologies in research. The first session introduced a photovoice exercise, which encouraged participants to use photography as a means of team building and self-expression. This exercise helped break down barriers, allowing GDFs to connect with one another on a personal level.
The second session focused on collaging, providing a reflective space for GDFs to process their experiences from the residency. This exercise enabled participants to visually map out their key takeaways and consider how they would integrate new insights into their work. Feedback from attendees highlighted how these sessions fostered a strong sense of camaraderie, connection, and shared purpose – an invaluable asset in the often-difficult field of CSEA research.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Global Child Protection Network
The collaboration between Childlight and the Binks Hub underscored the value of creative methodologies in research, reinforcing the importance of innovation in tackling complex social issues. As participants return to their respective countries and organisations, they carry with them new skills, perspectives, and connections that will contribute to a more effective and coordinated global response to CSEA.
Childlight is an organisation working to shine a light on the hidden pandemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA), revealing its prevalence and nature worldwide.
