Experiencing Transitions Under Probation Supervision (HHS-2026-19)

About the project

About the Project This PhD will explore how individuals experience the transitions that shape individual journeys throughout probation supervision, focusing on the social, emotional, and structural transitions that occur as they move between different stages of the criminal justice process. Probation is often presented as a rehabilitative, community‑based alternative to custody, yet people under probation supervision frequently navigate complex transitions, such as release from prison, changes in housing or employment, adjustments to supervision requirements, and shifts in identity and relationships. Yet little is known about how individuals experience these transitions and the accumulative impact of them and how these either support or hinder desistance. This PhD will use a qualitative approach to answer the following research questions: 1) How do individuals subject to probation supervision experience the social, emotional, and structural transitions that occur as they move through different stages of the probation supervision? 2) In what ways do multiple and accumulative transitions, such as release from custody, housing instability, employment changes, different supervision requirements, and identity, facilitate or hinder individuals’ desistance and compliance? 3) How do organisational practices and policy frameworks impact on the transitional experiences of people on probation? By analysing these dynamics, this research aims to contribute to theoretical debates along with offering practical insights to support the development of probation practice. For subject specific enquiries please contact: v.barrett2@hud.ac.uk We encourage you to discuss your ideas with potential supervisors in advance of application. Type of Award: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Eligibility: These scholarships are open to UK applicants only ; ideally with an MSc in a relevant subject area, applicants with a First-Class Honours degree may also be considered. Location: Huddersfield/Online Funding: Fee waiver Duration: 3 years full-time/ 6 years part-time Application Details To apply please submit the documents listed below to pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk in full by Friday 30 th October 2026 , including the following documents: A motivational email as to why you wish to apply for the scholarship, stating which project you are applying for. A 2,000-word research proposal outlining how you plan to undertake for the research topic you are applying for. For further guidance on writing a research proposal, please refer to the following webpage: https://www.hud.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/writing-a-research-proposal/ Full CV Provide copies of transcripts and certificates of all relevant academic and/or any professional qualifications. Provide references from two individuals – (at least one to be an academic reference) please contact your referees and ask them to send your references directly to pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk from their work email address. (references can be submitted late but must be received by Friday 6 th November 2026). Proof of eligibility – e.g. scan of passport photo page Please state the research topic number and title in the subject area of the email Please email pgrscholarships@hud.ac.uk with queries regarding eligibility and submitting documents. Informal enquiries about individual projects should be directed to the lead supervisor listed for each project.

Research areas