PhD Study : An investigation into the effectiveness of Sports Based Interventions (SBIs) in preparing prisoners for life after prison

Summary

Over the last 15 years prison populations around the world have grown exponentially, and although sport is increasingly being used in society to tackle the issues of anti-social behaviour and crime reduction (Nichols, 2004, 2007; Coalter 2007; Smith & Waddington, 2004), little is known about the use and effectiveness of sports-based interventions (SBIs) in preparing prisoners for a life free from crime after prison.

However, Gallant et al. (2015) highlight that although there is a scarcity of research regarding sport and recreation activities in prisons three main themes appear to be clearly evident in the academic literature: first, the health and wellbeing benefits for prisoners (Amtmann et al., 2001; Elger, 2009; Meek & Lewis, 2012; Vaiciulis et al. 2011); second, the tendency of the SBI’s to aid in the rehabilitation process (Hagan, 1989; Leberman, 2007; Mahon & Bullock, 1991; Stumbo & Little, 1991); and third, the effectiveness of SBIs as an offender management tool (Aguilar & Asmussen, 1990; Crutchfield et al., 1981; Martos-Garcia et al., 2009; Medve, 1961; Sabo, 2001).

These empirical studies lay the foundations for the further examination of the use of SBIs within the prison setting, but with a stronger focus on the post-prison process. This is particularly relevant within the NI context as the proven reoffending rate for prison releases is currently 41% (DoJ, 2018). Throughout the UK, growing prison populations and high recidivism rates are placing extreme pressure and scrutiny on governing bodies to provide more opportunities for prisoners to prepare themselves for release. Meek’s (2014) research highlights the inconsistent and under-developed practice that exists in prisons within the UK when it comes to the delivery, monitoring, evaluation and support for the participants of these programmes once they leave the custodial setting. Certainly Meek’s (2014) work is significant as it bridged the fields of psychology, criminology and sport for development (SfD) and raised questions as to the potential for both positive and negatives outcomes to result from SBIs in prisons.

The prison context is unique in terms of SfD development research as in this setting the sports programme is regarded as a privilege and can be taken away as a punishment, unlike the outside world where this would not be the case. Therefore, understanding what is perceived to make these programmes successful and what this measure of success looks like is crucial to ascertain for the particular geographical, structural and policy context of in Northern Ireland.  Limited research has taken place in terms of SBIs in prisons in Northern Ireland (NI) and what has been published has focused on psychology well-being (Breslin, Wood, Hassan, 2017). Therefore, innovative questions that will be raised in this research project which will focus on the pre- and post-release outcomes of SBIs in preparing prisoners for release and reducing reoffending.

References will be requested for shortlisted candidates.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living