Hazel Grace Whitters

Biography

I commenced my career at the Lingfield Hospital-School where I gained invaluable experience by working with children who had complex learning needs.  Several years at Quarrier’s Homes provided insight into epilepsy, and the use of respite to empower and strengthen the family as a primary support system.  Working in early years and primary education gave knowledge and understanding of the impact from bio-ecological influences upon development, particularly in a context of child protection.
I developed an awareness of the implementation gap between research, policy and practice on returning to university for part-time post-graduate study.  My research focused upon the parent-professional relationship in child protection and early intervention. Additionally, I was invited to join a team of researchers for a three year project which explored attachment and learning in primary education.
I continue to work in a family service in Glasgow, and my particular interests are the professional-parent relationship, therapeutic play, and infant mental health.

Education

MA, University of Glasgow, 1982
MSc ( Childhood Studies), University of Strathclyde, 2009
PhD (Education), University of Strathclyde, 2015

Areas of Research / Professional Expertise

Parent-Professional relationship in child protection and early intervention.
Attachment and resilience in early years.
Therapeutic relationship-based practice.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
Infant mental health.

Books

Articles