From the outset the research team fully embedded themselves into the recovery programme which enabled them to gain insight, both strategically and operationally into the funded activities. As a result, their research, and in particular the community survey which formed part of the evaluation, has enabled us to understand which funded activities have had the greatest impact on community recovery. This knowledge will inform future thinking if a similar programme needs establishing.
We collaborate with organisations across the public, private, and third sectors, tailoring our services to meet diverse needs. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction ensures we deliver value to all our partners, no matter their industry or scale.
Evidencing Best Practice in Supporting Shooting-Affected Communities
Client
Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (Devon and Cornwall), Plymouth City Council, and Devon & Cornwall Police
Challenge
Due to the rarity of mass shootings in the UK, there is limited available evidence on best practices for supporting communities affected by mass shootings. Following a mass shooting in Keyham, Plymouth in August 2021, the UK Home Office and the Ministry of Justice funded a number of community policing, community safety, and victim support initiatives to support the area’s recovery. They needed an independent evaluation to provide an evidence base for responding to an incident of serious violence from a community policing, community safety, and victim support perspective.
Our Approach
- A community survey completed by 240 residents of Keyham and the surrounding neighbourhoods to assess how the initiatives had been received by those living and working in the community.
- Interviews and focus groups with residents and professionals working in the local area, and a creative workshop focus group with young people.
- A follow-up community survey completed by 204 residents of Keyham and the surrounding neighbourhoods one year later to assess the sustainability of the initiatives.
Findings/Impact
Community policing and public space improvements were the most positively received interventions in the months after the incident. There was evidence of public confidence in the community policing team among those who had contact with them, and the importance of Victim Support’s services in the ongoing trauma recovery process was noted by professionals working in the local area. Recommendations to inform those tasked with supporting shooting-affected communities were included in the evaluation report.
Testimonial
Becki Parsons, Safer Keyham Project Manager, Devon & Cornwall Police/Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
How Evidence Shaped Best Practice in Supporting Young People at Risk
Client
Safer Devon Partnership (https://saferdevon.co.uk) – a county-wide collaboration focused on preventing crime and supporting safer communities.
Challenge
Safer Devon wanted to test whether a new Young Person’s Behaviour Change Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (BC IDVA) pilot could provide effective, tailored support to young people showing harmful behaviour at home or in relationships. They needed an independent evaluation to understand what worked, what could be improved, and how best practice could be developed.
Our Approach
- Conducted two phases of evaluation using in-depth semi-structured interviews with young people, parents, and professionals.
- Analysed risk assessment data alongside lived experiences to track changes over time.
- Applied thematic analysis to identify consistent patterns, strengths, and areas for development.
Findings/Impact
The evaluation demonstrated that the BC IDVA pilot provided valuable 1:1 support, helping young people address harmful behaviours and improving family dynamics. Insights from parents and professionals also highlighted the importance of specialist, youth-focused interventions. The findings shaped recommendations for embedding and scaling this approach across Devon and beyond.
Outputs/Legacy
- Two independent evaluation reports shared with partners.
- Evidence base now informs local service planning and supports replication of the model.
Testimonial
Zoë and Caroline’s evaluative work has been invaluable in allowing us to gain a rich picture of how the programme has been operating and its impacts, and opportunities for future adaptation and exploration. The evaluations have enabled us to evidence the value of a bespoke service which fills a gap in provision, and which can demonstrably create conditions for positive behaviour change in young people. This has supported us in continuing to secure funding in recent years. It will also place us in a strong position as we move forward to considering longer term and more sustainable opportunities.
Jenny Jurga, Community Safety Policy Officer, Safer Lives and Communities Team, Devon County Council
Building Credible Inclusion: A University-Justice Partnership
Client
Joe Raby, Assistant Director, Justice and Education
Catch 22
Our collaboration with the university has notably enhanced the credibility of our approach, reinforcing our commitment to a theoretically underpinned framework that drives continuous improvement and our commitment to inclusion and academic practices and innovation. Your support for our inclusion lead, particularly through your active participation in inclusion boards and development group meetings, has added significant depth to our initiatives.
The specialist bespoke support you provided—specialist workshops, webinars, and practical resources—has greatly benefited our staff. Your critical reviews of our inclusion documents, such as the quality assurance tool and group restructure, have further strengthened our frameworks.
The impact of your awareness sessions, especially those focusing on working with Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities, was clear and appreciated. Feedback from staff has consistently been positive; many found your presence at inclusion boards enlightening and supportive. This sentiment extends to operational managers and assistant directors, who have also expressed gratitude for your contributions.
Katie’s mentorship of Rachael has been invaluable for her professional development, fostering growth within our team. Your strategic support regarding the wider Justice Hub has helped us categorise lead areas more effectively, enhancing service delivery for both our clients and staff and helped us evidence the need to grow the support in the inclusion and academic partnerships space, resulting in a centralised governance and interventions team.
Your understanding of our organisation significantly reduced onboarding time for students, enabling a smooth integration into their projects. The breadth of knowledge you brought has been instrumental in Catch 22 developing a comprehensive student placement program that aligns with our strategic goals.
Additionally, your responsiveness to our evolving needs, particularly regarding race and cultural competency training, has been brilliant given the everchanging and responsive nature that can be working the CJS space. The informal yet structured relationship we’ve built has ensured we stay aligned and proactive in our inclusion and placement initiatives.
Thank you for your support and collaboration which has reinforced us further enhancing our credibility and impact in this space.
Some additional feedback from participants in our training and recipients of our support:
Since Katie frequently attending the LGBTQ+ monthly meetings, Katie had supported with coming up with a case study webinar, which we have now delivered to over 30 Catch22 staff members in order for staff to be aware of the challenges, tailoring and complexities that arise with LGBTQ+ service users. This has contributed to staff knowledge and increased tailored support.
It was great to reflect and understand the barriers [GRT communities] face in more detail and become more aware of them. I wish we had a bit more time to explore the case studies and the do’s and don’ts a bit more. Overall great training session.
Get In Touch
Ready to embark on your journey towards inclusivity? Contact us to discuss your needs and explore how we can support your organisation. Whether you’re interested in training, strategic guidance, or bespoke solutions, we’re here to help.