Fresh perspectives and deep dives into the ideas shaping today’s strategies, systems, and communities. 

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Systems thinking

That bountiful byzantine space beyond the boundary: Safer transitions and fairer chances where custody and community divide – Part Two

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about probation reform and how decades of change have left us with fragmentation and fragility. I was pleased that so many people read the article and was starting to scope out a new topic for the next one. Then a chance early morning phone call on a train took things in a different direction.

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22/09/2025 No Comments
Systems thinking

That beautiful bewildering space beyond the boundary: Safer transitions and fairer chances where custody and community divide

Decades have passed since anyone enquired about the state of my external boundaries. These were not just departmental divides – they were dynamic spaces of tension, creativity, and transformation. This post explores how systems thinking and focused boundary work can shape our systems, our relationships, and our capacity to lead change.

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02/09/2025 No Comments
Systems thinking

A discovery journey with my earworm

This article explores:
• Why, in the world of health, justice and social care, complex problems often take time to fully understand and even longer to resolve
• How tired systems in that world can be reawakened in new and meaningful ways
• The deep systemic connection between participation, awareness and action
• The value of rigorous, systems-focused collaboration
• How small groups can make a big impact on sizeable challenges.

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01/06/2025 No Comments

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