Personal statement

Natalie's research seeks to understand how prison is experienced by family and friends of people incarcerated in England and Wales. Having explored 'maternal imprisonment and family life' during her doctorate, she authored a book revealing the previously untold experiences of those charged with the responsibility of looking after children of female prisoners 'from the caregivers' perspectives' (published by Policy Press, 2020). She also researches and writes about the maintenance of relationships and family contact during imprisonment, remand and pre-trial detention, mothers and women in prison, and developments in penal policy relating to women and families. She is co-convenor of the international research network Women, Family, Crime and Justice (WFCJ) and her research findings have informed policy developments in England and Wales (i.e. Lord Farmer’s Review, 2018).

Natalie has several years’ experience of university teaching, often delivering lectures and seminars in the field of penology and punishment. She has been recognised as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and has a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (PGCTHLE). Inclusive and interactive pedagogies are central to her teaching philosophy, and to help ensure the best student learning experience. These principles have similarly underscored prison-based learning activities she has delivered.

Academic qualifications

  • PhD
  • FHEA
  • PGCLTHE
  • MRes in Social Work
  • BSc (Hons) Sociology

Research supervision

If you are interested in postgraduate study exploring the criminal justice system and women and/or families then please get in touch.

Research and academic outputs

Go to ResearchSPAce