Criminology and social policy research
Our research in Criminology and Social Policy focuses on two key areas: children, young people and families, and applied criminal justice.
World-leading academics in these fields work closely with a vibrant community of research students to conduct research that has an impact on criminal justice and social policies and practice both in the UK and globally - research that helps to transform lives.
We believe that our research should have impact and relevance in the real-world. Therefore, we collaborate with a wide range of national and international academics and stakeholders including policy makers and practitioners in criminal justice, social policy and social care. Some examples of our world-class research include work on the Minimum Income Standard, identification of innovative, 'child first' youth justice interventions for children and young people, research with young carers and examining the role of sports-led interventions in the rehabilitation of offenders.
Applied criminal justice
Lead: Professor Stephen Case
The unit's applied criminal justice research strand has a dual focus on promoting non-criminal identities and evidence-based policy transfer and is pursued through collaboration with key criminal justice stakeholders (e.g. Youth Offending Teams, the Youth Justice Board, the Police, Probation and Prison services). Our objective is to inform and shape evidence-based policy and practice agendas through participatory research with vulnerable groups such as children, victims and ex-offenders.
Children, young people and families
Lead: Professor Jo Aldridge
The Children, Young People and Families cluster focuses on generating and delivering high quality, high impact academic research with an applied objective – to inform and influence government policy and professional practice (both nationally and globally) on children and families, and to transform lives. Our work includes research on young carers, low income households and youth justice. Our research is designed to enhance participation and inclusion and promotes the rights and 'voices' of all those who take part. The Centre for Research in Social Policy is world-renowned for its influential work on the Minimum Income Standard, as well as on experiences of families on low income and the effects of child poverty.