We’re proud to share the independent evaluation of Lancashire Women’s Reducing Recalls Project, undertaken by the University of Lancashire.

The findings provide compelling evidence of the impact that trauma-informed, relationship-based support can have for women caught in cycles of repeated prison recall.

The evaluation highlights that many women are recalled not because of new offending, but due to challenges such as homelessness, mental ill health, substance use, poverty, and a lack of suitable support on release. The project’s dedicated Recalls Officer model has helped bridge the gap between custody and community by providing consistent, practical and compassionate support before and after release.

Key findings include:

• Improved engagement with probation and support services
• Better access to accommodation and community support
• Increased confidence, self-worth and stability for women leaving custody
• Stronger partnership working between prisons, probation and community organisations
• Evidence of reduced repeat recalls for some of the most vulnerable women supported by the project

The evaluation reinforces what we know to be true: preventing recall is not simply about compliance. It is about providing women with safe accommodation, trusted relationships, timely support and genuine opportunities to rebuild their lives.

We’re delighted that the project has secured a further three years of funding and is already expanding its learning through regional partnerships, conferences and national practice-sharing events.

A huge thank you to the women who shared their experiences, our partners across HMP Styal, Probation and the wider criminal justice system, and to Dr Rebecca Fish, Jayn Pearson and the team at the University of Lancashire for producing this important piece of work.

Read the full evaluation here.

Together, we can create a justice system that recognises trauma, amplifies women’s voices and supports lasting change.