Research in Sociology

More than 3.5 million people are subject to imprisonment and/or penal supervision across Europe. UofG research explains how and why people cease and refrain from offending through a process known as ‘desistance’, which supports reintegration into society after punishment. 

McNeill and Schinkel’s research is well-known across Europe where they have developed strong and sustained relationships with policymakers and practitioners. 

The research has been used to re-design policy and practice so that new forms of support for desistance and reintegration have developed, for example, in Scotland, England, Wales, Belgium and the Netherlands. 

In England and Wales, senior practitioners attest that the research influenced Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service to make offending behaviour programmes less formulaic; introducing a greater focus on the co-production of change and emphasising the importance of helping people to find their own unique strengths and talents. 

The research also influenced legislative changes in Scotland, including amendments to ensure that all long-term prisoners are released no later than six months before full sentence expiry and with support and supervision. 

Most recently, the research helped shape the UN’s Kyoto Declaration (2021), which puts greater emphasis on the need for social support for reintegration. 

Evidence is now emerging of how these ‘desistance-informed’ developments are contributing to safer societies through more effective approaches to criminal justice.