Laura Riley

• Desistance
• Strength-based solutions
• The role of identity in recidivism and desistance
• Positive Criminology

• PgCert Research Practice, Birmingham City University
• MA Criminology, Birmingham City University
• BA Political Science, University of Birmingham 

Informal support mechanisms for released child sex offenders

Academics and policy makers have long been concerned with what constitutes effective methods to promote desistance from sexual offending. However, the profound contribution made by friends and relatives of those with a history of sexually offending against children has been ignored. This research seeks to address this, utilising interviews with both those with convictions for sexually offending against children, their friends and relatives, and formal (trained) volunteers, it will lend a voice to participants and allow their experience to be more widely understood.

To explore this, Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis will be utilised when considering their contributions. Issues considered include: whether child sex abuse and the public reaction to those accused of it constitute a moral panic, the current understanding of desistance and the roles of family and friends, and what constitutes informal and formalised support. It is hoped that this will identify barriers to friends and family offering support for those engaged in desistance and inspire further academic enquiry.

• Sarah Pemberton
• Stephanie Kewley
• Michael Brookes