Welcome to July’s edition of the Cordis Pulse – a monthly digest of key research and policy developments across the sectors in which Cordis Bright provides research and consultancy services, i.e. adult social care and health, children and young people's services, and criminal justice.

This month, we’re pleased to highlight the publication of the evaluation protocol for Steps, Salford Foundation’s programme designed to help boys aged 11–14 challenge harmful gender norms and reduce misogynistic attitudes and behaviours. The study will combine a large-scale cluster randomised controlled trial with implementation, process and cost evaluation, helping to build stronger evidence about what works in preventing gender-based violence.

The protocol also connects closely with several wider themes in this month’s Pulse, including the importance of early intervention, the links between wellbeing, belonging and school engagement, and the need to understand how young people experience support in practice. These issues underline the value of rigorous evaluation that can inform both policy and delivery.