Prisons and probation

The Leicester Prisons Research Network(LPRN)

The LPRN works closely with prisons across the UK to undertake world-leading interdisciplinary research that shapes policy and practice. This work focuses on 3 main themes: (1) health, well-being and disease in prisons; (2) order, control and security in prisons; and (3) leadership, environment and organisational culture in prisons. 

In 2021, the Leicester Prisons Research Network, LPRN (co-run by Dr Matt Tonkin) was awarded funding from the University of Leicester ESRC Impact Acceleration Account to develop a strategic partnership with 4 'Midlands' prisons. Over a 2-year period, the aim of this partnership is to engage in research, knowledge exchange and other activities that enhance the psychological and physical health of staff and prisoners across these 4 prison sites. The partnership will focus on 4 workstreams, leading to the development of policy and best-practice guidelines/toolkits for partner prisons and the wider prison service, as well as a long-term strategy for delivering health and wellbeing benefits beyond the 2 years and more widely across the prison and forensic healthcare estates.