Research
Our research work lies at the heart of what we do. In this section, you can explore a range of examples that demonstrate the depth and breadth of our research activity. Through rigorous, methodologically robust approaches, we generate high-quality evidence that strengthens understanding and informs practice. This commitment to producing credible and impactful research is central to how we seek to influence meaningful change.
About our research
The Prison Reform Trust’s research programme works to:
- provide prisoners with a chance to explain the prison experience;
- support the prison service’s efforts to improve prisons through independent, external scrutiny; and
- provide evidence-based knowledge to inform policy-makers, government, the voluntary sector, the academic community and the general public.
Current research projects
- Bromely Briefings Prison Factfile 2026 – A compilation of key data on UK prisons.
- Next Generation Leaders – The case for reform through prison leadership—a review of the work undertaken by and with aspiring prison leaders who wish to reform from within
- A measure of hope? How purpose, meaning and fulfilment can ease the harms of long-term imprisonment – A survey and consultation with 123 long-serving prisons on meaningful reforms to long sentences
- Release from long-term imprisonment – As part of the Building Futures programme, accounts from 20 ex-prisoners released from long sentences about their post-release experiences
- Update and restart: post-pandemic prison digitalisation in England and Wales – A review of digital provision for prisoners and how it is affecting prison life
Examples of our publications
View all- February 2026 Bromley Briefings Prison Factfile: February 2026 Our flagship publication brings together the latest facts about prisons and the people in them. Bromley Briefings Prison Factfile: February 2026
- December 2025 A Measure of Hope? How purpose, meaning and fulfilment can ease the harms of long-term imprisonment This report by Kimmett Edgar, Claudia Vince and Rachel O’Brien draws on the voices of 123 peop... A Measure of Hope? How purpose, meaning and fulfilment can ease the harms of long-term imprisonment
- August 2025 Release from long-term imprisonment This report, written by Dr Ailie Rennie, in partnership with PRT’s Building Futures programme,... Release from long-term imprisonment
- June 2025 Update and Restart Most prisons now offer virtual methods for staying in touch with loved ones, along with expanded pro... Update and Restart
- December 2015 Deep Custody: segregation units and close supervision centres in England and Wales Segregation units and close supervision centres (CSCs) are complex places, where some of the prison&... Deep Custody: segregation units and close supervision centres in England and Wales
