Robin Mutter

Dr. Robin Mutter is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Work Counselling & Social Care at the University of East London (UEL), affiliated with the School of Childhood and Social Care. He holds a PhD from the University of Essex and is a UEL alumnus (BA Sociology with Professional Studies and Certificate of Qualification in Social Work, 1980s). His career includes roles as Programme Leader for Post Qualifying Award in Child Care at the University of Hertfordshire and teaching Sociology at Ruskin College DipSW. His research focuses on Family Group Conferencing (FGC) in social work, youth justice, mental health services, and reproductive health needs of asylum seekers. He has conducted studies on service user perspectives in mental health care for people with learning disabilities and the impact of child protection processes on family social support.

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with Professional Studies, UEL
• Certificate of Qualification in Social Work, UEL
• PhD in Sociology, University of Essex

Research Interests:

• Transformation of Family Group Conferencing in social work organizations
• FGC applications in youth justice and mental health systems
• Reproductive health access for vulnerable youth (e.g., asylum seekers)
• Social capital and family support in child protection contexts

Publications: Dr. Mutter’s work spans over two decades, emphasizing FGC efficacy, youth justice reforms, and intersectional healthcare challenges. His research bridges sociological theory with practical policy implications, particularly in marginalized populations. Notable themes include institutional adaptation (North-South dynamics), ethical methodological approaches in sensitive populations, and participatory care models.

Grants/Advising: No specific grants or student advisees listed in the text. Collaborations include North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust and Essex Social Services.

Labs/Teams: Involved in multidisciplinary research teams focused on FGC evaluation and restorative justice initiatives, such as the Restorative Justice Family Group Conference Project (2002).