MissAshleigh Whitwell
Researcher
PGR Students
- ResearcherPGR Students
RESEARCH INTERESTS
PhD Title: How far are the physical, psychological and practical needs of older prisoners understood by those responsible for their care, and are reasonable actions taken, or adjustments made, to ensure they can access the opportunities and experiences available to them while in custody?
This research is concerned with understanding the needs and characteristics of older prisoners currently serving time in custody in England and Wales. Older prisoners are typically defined as any prisoners over the age of fifty. The focus is on understanding the actual needs of this group, not just what is perceived to be a need by those making decisions about their care. Once these needs are identified and understood, analysis will take place to understand whether current approaches are appropriate in meeting them. The research will be conducted at HMP Stafford, where over fifty percent of the overall prison population consists of older prisoners, but many of the conclusions and recommendations are likely to be applicable to all establishments that are responsible for housing and the care of older prisoners. The conclusions from this research will not only benefit HMP Stafford, but the wider prison estate. It has the potential to inform and guide changes to how care for older prisoners is planned for and delivered, more appropriately meeting their needs and the needs of the establishment.
This research is focused on experiences and will give voice to those who are currently in custody, the people that the research conclusions will have an impact on.
This research is concerned with understanding the needs and characteristics of older prisoners currently serving time in custody in England and Wales. Older prisoners are typically defined as any prisoners over the age of fifty. The focus is on understanding the actual needs of this group, not just what is perceived to be a need by those making decisions about their care. Once these needs are identified and understood, analysis will take place to understand whether current approaches are appropriate in meeting them. The research will be conducted at HMP Stafford, where over fifty percent of the overall prison population consists of older prisoners, but many of the conclusions and recommendations are likely to be applicable to all establishments that are responsible for housing and the care of older prisoners. The conclusions from this research will not only benefit HMP Stafford, but the wider prison estate. It has the potential to inform and guide changes to how care for older prisoners is planned for and delivered, more appropriately meeting their needs and the needs of the establishment.
This research is focused on experiences and will give voice to those who are currently in custody, the people that the research conclusions will have an impact on.