At Just For Good, we believe in using evidence and research to tackle injustice and support positive change. That’s why we’re proud to highlight the impactful work of Dr Nicola Harding, our founder and leader in our mission to make society safer, fairer, and more informed.

Dr Harding recently appeared on the BBC Newsbeat feature on Moneymule activity, where she helped shine a light on a growing but often misunderstood issue: the recruitment of students and young people as money mules.

What is a Money Mule?

Money mules are individuals who allow their bank accounts to be used to move criminal money – sometimes knowingly, but often without fully understanding the consequences. For young people, particularly students in financial hardship, the promise of easy money can be tempting. But involvement in money laundering, even unknowingly, can have life-altering consequences, including criminal charges and blacklisting from financial institutions.

Research That Informs, Protects, and Empowers

Dr Harding’s research examines the human stories behind financial crime. Rather than focusing solely on punishment, her work highlights the systemic vulnerabilities and social pressures that lead people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, into risky or unlawful behaviour.

Her insights help policymakers and support services understand how and why young people become involved as money mules. She advocates for preventative approaches that combine education, support, and community-based solutions – informing  Just For Good’s values.

In the Media: Crooks on Campus

In the BBC’s mini documentary, Dr Harding contextualised the sharp rise in money mule activity on university campuses. She spoke about how organised crime groups target students through social media and encrypted messaging apps, and how the stigma around asking for financial help can leave many vulnerable to exploitation.

Her appearance brought academic expertise into the public eye and reinforced the urgent need for a more compassionate and informed response to youth financial crime.

“We need to stop looking at these young people as just offenders,” Dr Harding explained. “We have to ask: who’s targeting them, and why aren’t we doing more to protect them?”

What’s Next?

At Just For Good, we’re working with researchers to develop tools, campaigns, and educational resources that raise awareness and reduce harm. We’re proud to support projects that break cycles of poverty and punishment and promote restorative justice.

You can watch Dr Harding’s full interview below, or on the BBC Newsbeat website. And stay tuned – because we’re just getting started.