A new head has been appointed to Scotland's leading research centre on youth and criminal justice.

Claire Lightowler, pictured, formerly of the Institute For Research And Innovation In Social Services, has taken over as director of the Strathclyde University -based Centre For Youth & Criminal Justice.

The centre, funded by the Scottish Government, works to ensure youth and criminal justice practice, policy and research is evidence based

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "The Scottish Government looks forward to working with her and the centre to help build better lives for our young people."

Ms Lightowler said: "There is a clear recognition that we need to do things differently if we are to make real progress towards a safe and fair Scotland for all.

"The Centre For Youth & Criminal Justice has a significant role to play in supporting improvements across youth and criminal justice."