Evidence-based research

Our commitment to evidence-based research

As part of our strategy to reimagine, redesign and rebuild the criminal justice system, we are committed to strengthening our connections with universities, research bodies, and academics. This ensures our work is firmly grounded in evidence-based research.

Each year, we seek to partner with a university to hold a research symposium to explore a different pillar of our vision for a fair and effective criminal justice system: one that is Safe, Smart, Person-Centred, Restorative and Trusted. Following each symposium, we will compile a comprehensive compendium encapsulating the insights gained, please find the first two below.

Inaugural research symposium: How can we improve trust in the criminal justice system?

In March 2023, in partnership with the University of Westminster, we held our inaugural academic symposium on the theme of improving trust in the criminal justice system. We also launched a new category of membership for individual academics (Masters level and above) to strengthen these connections. Over 100 delegates attended, including academics, voluntary sector practitioners, statutory bodies, campaigners, people with lived experience and students from across the UK.

A safer criminal justice system

In May 2025, we partnered with MetroPolis at Manchester Metropolitan University to host our second research symposium, exploring the theme of a safer criminal justice system. Set against the backdrop of record-high prison populations, sentencing reforms and a growing recognition of systemic inequalities, the symposium provided a vital platform for examining evidence-based approaches to criminal justice reform. Participants engaged in six workshops addressing key challenges across the system: prison effectiveness and community alternatives, sentencing reform, victim support and safeguarding, women’s justice, AI and technology ethics, and the integration of lived experience in research.