Evaluation Title

The Arts in Criminal Justice: a Study of Research Feasibility

Type of evaluation

Data type Qualitative

Evaluation Focus Distinctive contribution of Arts, Value of Arts methodologies

Key indicators Methodological rigour, Programme integrity

Project output Arts-based workshops

Methodologies Diaries, Interviews, Observation, Profiling, Psychometric Measures, Tracking forms

Summary of evaluation

A feasibility study examining the practical, logistical and methodological issues involved in carrying out effective research on the impact of arts interventions in criminal justice settings. Rather than producing evidence of project outcomes, this study addresses the issue of what constitutes good quality research and evidence in this context and, most particularly, what the obstacles are to producing it.

Six key data gathering methods were trialled for their feasibility and effectiveness: profiling; psychometric tests; observation; interviews; diaries and tracking.

Project description

It is based on analysis of case study projects, including some of the leading arts organisations in the sector, both state and private sector criminal justice establishments, as well as projects provided by external voluntary organisations and one delivered by a prison education department.
Clean Break - community contexts- London

WIPN/Connections - Bullwood Hall

Dance United - Styal

Rideout - Dovegate

TiPP - community contexts - Bolton

Key Quote

Evidence from this and other studies suggests that arts interventions in prisons and resettlement are particularly good at fostering the kinds of personal and social resources that open avenues to further learning and underpin attitudinal and behavioural change.


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