SCCJR are undertaking some analysis aimed at identifying factors that may have contributed to the increased use of female imprisonment in Scotland. The number of women imprisoned in Scotland has risen dramatically over the last 10-15 years (as it has done in other western jurisdictions) prompting questions as to the factors that have brought about this change. In seeking to explore this issue attention needs to focus on explanations related to offending (for example, more women committing more serious crime) alongside systemic factors (for example, changes in sentencing powers, increasing punitiveness among sentencers).  This project will consist of analysis of statistical data, reviews of existing data and literature and interviews with key stakeholders, including sentencers.   This work has been requested by the Scottish Government and will run from November 2009 – December 2010.

Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice Process and Institutions

Associated People

Prof Sarah Armstrong

University of Glasgow

Prof Michele Burman

University of Glasgow

Prof Margaret Malloch

University of Stirling

Prof Gill McIvor

University of Stirling