Sophie Anderson

Sophie Anderson is a Lecturer at the University of Cumbria within the Institute of Health, Society, Children and Families. She teaches on programs including Youth Work, Health and Social Care, and Children and Young People’s Wellbeing. With over 18 years of frontline practice experience, her expertise spans sexual health, young carers, and children in care. Her research focuses on youth attitudes toward relationships, sexual health education, and neurodiversity in education. She co-authored a 2024 study on young people’s beliefs about intimate relationships, emphasizing gaps in sex education and the need for inclusive practices. Sophie holds an MA in Youth Work and Community Development and is a member of the Institute of Youth Work.

• Qualifications: MA Youth Work (JNC Accreditation), Postgraduate Diploma in Youth Work, Fd Working With Young People
• Research Interests: Sexual health, health equity, youth development

Her work bridges academic and practical domains, combining teaching with consultancy in youth work organizations. She advocates for accessible education models and critical dialogue in addressing societal pressures on youth, particularly around body image and media influences.