Third Sector, research and the criminal justice system

Event details

Event Overview

Since 2013, a team of researchers at Coventry University (CU) led by Geraldine Brown have carried out collaborative criminal justice research projects working with third sector organizations.  These studies have examined prison and community based interventions working with groups who have come to the attention of the criminal justice system.

In adopting a collaborative approach to this work a key aim is to generate theoretical and practical insights based on the views and experiences of key stakeholders. Fundamental to this, is employing an approach that captures and centres the experiences of individuals and groups in order identify and understand their views and experiences about factors which shape their engagement with programs.  This is alongside generating insights about how services and practitioners engage and respond to individuals’ and groups’ needs.  Our principle aim is to work towards generating an understanding of the relationship between the context in which programs/interventions are delivered, the effectiveness of the way in which programs/ interventions are delivered and the extent that participants and practitioners identify change or the potential for change to occur.

To date, the team and CU have carried out projects that offer key insights in regards to the strengths and weaknesses associated with collaborative approaches to criminal justice research. The workshop offers an opportunity to share learning from recent collaborations with the third sector organization we have worked with, examining; the role of horticulture in supporting substance misusing prisoners (Project 1, Brown et al, 2016), examined how land based models work with offenders (Project 2, Bos et al, 2016), explored how a faith based program engages and impacts on Black men identified as ‘gang involved’ in prison and on release (Project 3, Brown et al, 2016) an examination of a community led program ‘Roots out’ working with sex workers in prison and on release (Project 4, Brady et al, ongoing) and a study examining the work of a Drug and Alcohol Team in a local prison, supporting them in developing a Recovery Unit for substance misusing offenders (Project 5, Brown et al, on-going).

The workshop will provide a space for shared learning and consideration of effective ways of working with men and women in prison and on release in communities.

Booking information

This is a free event open to community and third sector organisations/ individuals working in the criminal justice arena or with individuals identified as at ‘risk’ of coming to attention of the criminal justice system.

Refreshment will be provided throughout the day.

Arrival from 9.30 onwards for a prompt start at 10am.

Enquiries

For enquiries please contact Dr. Geraldine Brown

g.brown@coventry.ac.uk

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