Ilona Buchroth is a senior lecturer in community and youth studies at the University of Sunderland. Prior to this she has worked in community development, youth work, adult education, teaching and lastly for a Local Authority Community Education Service as a middle manager with responsibility for adult education. She has a particular interest in informal education and has maintained an active involvement in the voluntary sector. Chris Parkin is a senior lecturer in community and youth studies at the University of Sunderland. She has spent 10 years working in community development and youth work. Chris has also been a trustee of various charitable bodies connected to community and youth work, including the Community Foundation and the British Association of Settlements and Social Action Centres.