The latest research funding for CaHRU was awarded to Dr Coral Sirdifield and her team, for a study titled, ‘Understanding and learning from the impact of COVID-19 on probation’s work to improve the health of people under its supervision‘. The research is funded by the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) as part of UK Research & Innovation’s rapid response to Covid-19. The team led by the University of Lincoln includes Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service and the Revolving Doors Agency.
The mixed-methods study combines probation staff survey data with primary data from service user interviews and follow-up calls with staff via email or telephone/other digital media. The study aims to directly inform future policy and practice from staff and service user perspectives by providing insight into the 
nature and impact of COVID-19 responses on health-related probation practice, the lived experience of accessing support for health issues whilst under probation supervision and partnership working and pathways into care. The study will also increase understanding of how to minimise negative consequences of change, and identify beneficial practice innovations to support health improvement in people under probation supervision.
Project partners will participate in a workshop where preliminary findings will be shared, and participants will be able to discuss the accuracy of interpretation of the data, feasibility of recommendations, where models may need refinement, and where additional detail may be needed. Read more about the project at the study blog.