Dr Leona Mydlowski and a team of researchers at Leeds Law School and the University of Lancashire will interview officers from five police forces across the UK to understand their experiences and views of SHPOs, and they will analyse a sample of SHPOs and case files to explore whether they have been effective at preventing further sexual harm. Dr Mydlowski, Reader at Leeds Law School, and project leader, explained: Sexual Harm Prevention Orders were introduced in 2015 to protect the public from sexual harm by restricting behaviours, for a minimum of five years, for example restricting access to the internet. They are designed to change behaviour and manage future risk, rather than a focus on punishment and more negative obligations introduced under the previous Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act. The findings of our project will provide an important evidence base as to how SHPOs are implemented in practice, and whether they are effective in achieving their aim of preventing sexual harm. This will impact sex offender management policy and also legislation in the area of violence against women and girls. The research has been funded by the Governments Evaluation Accelerator Fund, and the findings will be presented to the Cabinet and the Home Office by March 2027. Completing the research team are Professor Rachel Armitage and Dr Katie Dhingra at Leeds Beckett University, and Professor Sarah Kingston at the University of Lancashire. Dr Leona Mydlowski has been researching sex offender management for the past 10 years, with a focus on police offender management of sexual offenders in the community. She is currently leading on another large-scale project, funded by the UK Home Office, to conduct a national review into the risk assessment currently used within the UK for adult male sex offenders, known as Active Risk Management System (ARMS). Dr Mydlowski added: We are reviewing the effectiveness of ARMS to understand if it is the correct approach to risk assess adult male sex offenders. As SHPOs are used as a management tool by police officers, alongside ARMS, to prevent further sexual harm, the findings from our new research project will also feed into future developments of ARMS. Professor Rachel Armitage, Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange at Leeds Law School, said: We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Leona Mydlowski to the Law School as our new Reader. Securing a Cabinet Office Evaluation Acceleration Fund award on Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, alongside her Home Office research exploring risk assessment in sex offender management, demonstrates the strength and urgency of her research. Her expertise directly contributes to the national violence against women and girls (VAWG) agenda and supports government efforts to strengthen evidence based safeguarding policy. We are proud to celebrate her achievements and excited about the impact her work will generate.
What is the PALS scheme? The Law School at Leeds Beckett University have launched a Peer-Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS), which pairs second and third-year students (Student Leaders) with first-year students (Student Learners) to offer support with their first 12 months transitioning to university. Through the scheme, Student Leaders meet with their Student Learners to provide advice and guidance on a wide range of topics: from academic study skills and the university's academic/vocational offerings, right through to joining social clubs and helping them to find the nearest local supermarket. PALS is intended to assist Student Learners with what can sometimes be a daunting and overwhelming transition into university life, while enhancing the transferable skills and employability of the Student Leaders. Hear from the students: Why we got involved in the scheme Vicki and Max, Second Year LLB Law Students:"We both became mentors because we wanted to give something back to the Law School and create the student support network we wished we had when we were first years. Having already experienced many of the challenges that come with studying law, we were keen to help newer students get a better understanding of the course and develop early confidence in their studies." Ryhan, First Year Law Student:"I first discovered the PALS scheme at the Law School Induction Fair. At that point in the year, I was still adjusting to university life and beginning to realise how different studying law at degree level is compared to anything I'd done before. Starting a law degree can feel overwhelming. When I learned about the scheme, it immediately stood out as an opportunity to gain guidance and honest, practical advice from students who'd recently been through the same experience." What our PALS experience has involved: Vicki and Max: "We focused on creating a supportive, informal environment with our first-year students, where we could have open discussions about studying law and being a student in general. We discussed study techniques, ways to approach legal problem questions and essays, managing workload, preparing for assessments - as well as helping mentees find work experience and opportunities within the Law School. "The sessions have been very collaborative, making it easier to learn from each other and build confidence when approaching different areas of the course. It's been a big boost to see that the students who consistently attended sessions and took our advice on board have really benefited. One of these students is Ryhan..." Ryhan: "The sessions have supported my understanding of studying law, with practical advice on topics like approaching problem questions and essays, managing workload and preparing for assessments. "It has also helped me personally. Moving away from home and starting university can be a huge transition. Having mentors who understood both the academic pressures of a law degree and the wider experience of being a student made it much easier to settle into the Law School and to feel more confident." What we've gained from the scheme: Max and Vicki: "The scheme has allowed us to build leadership, mentoring and communication skills that will help us throughout our own academic journeys when applying for training contracts or pupillages. It's been great to be part of a pioneer scheme, and we're excited to see how it builds." Ryhan: "Having mentors that have already been through the student experience is invaluable. They've been extremely approachable and generous with their time, always willing to share their experiences and offer honest advice." Would we recommend the scheme? Max, Vicki and Ryhan: "Definitely! For students considering becoming leaders, it's an incredible opportunity to develop valuable skills such as mentoring, teamwork and communication, while also making a positive impact on other students' academic journeys and strengthening future applications. "For learners, the scheme provides a supportive space to ask questions, gain advice from experienced students, build confidence in studying law and make connections that last beyond your academic journey."
Policing, probation, health, councils, and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector came together at Leeds Beckett University to shape the region's 'Women's Whole System Approach'. It aims to help women get support earlier and more easily, before problems lead to offending. It is based on evidence that many have experienced trauma, abuse, poor mental health, or poverty. Talks were given by experts from Leeds Beckett University, the probation service, and others, who shared insight and best practice - as well as welcome speech from Professor Peter Slee, Vice Chancellor. Dr Sarah Waite and Dr Alexandria Bradley, Leeds Beckett University say: "It has been a privilege to support West Yorkshire Combined Authority in bringing together such a diverse range of partners to begin shaping a shared blueprint for a Whole Systems Approach for Women. By combining research, lived and professional expertise, and collaborative working, we can help create more connected, evidence-informed services that better meet the needs of women across West Yorkshire." West Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, says: "Our aim is to help more women stay out of the criminal justice system and rebuild their lives. By working together, we can step in earlier, offer the right support and stop problems turning into offending. This is about helping women build more stable, safer futures for themselves and their families." During the event, partners took part in workshops and group discussions to agree a shared vision for change. Women with lived experience of the criminal justice system were at the centre of the discussions. They shared personal stories about the challenges they faced in accessing help, particularly before reaching crisis point or after leaving prison. One woman said: "I think no one catches it early enough. There were so many warning signs, even at primary school, but no one took it seriously until I was at crisis point," whilst another added: "I wasn't heard. I went through family abuse, and I reached out for help, but no one listened. I needed a safe place where I could disclose." Their insights will help shape how services are improved across the region.
Senior Lecturers Kate Astall and Dr John McGarry have contributed expertise that has influenced the Law Commission's ongoing examination of the laws governing contempt of court. The review, commissioned by the Government and launched in July 2024, seeks to modernise an area of law regarded by experts and academics as fragmented and complex. Contempt of court refers to a range of legal rules designed to protect the integrity of the legal process including measures to prevent disruption in court proceedings, ensure compliance with court orders and restrict publications which may prejudice or impede a trial. However, the current framework is criticised for its lack of clarity and consistency. LBU's Dr McGarry's research focuses on the role of the Attorney General in contempt proceedings. He says: "The Attorney General, as a government minister, should not have responsibility for deciding whether contempt proceedings are brought against individuals." His research was cited extensively in the Law Commission's 2024 Consultation Paper and informed a substantial part of its analysis. Leeds Beckett research also contributed towards a supplementary consultation, examining what information authorities should be permitted to release following major criminal incidents, following the widespread riots that occurred after the murders of three young girls in Southport in 2024. Concerns that insufficient information had been shared with the public were seen as a contributing factor to the unrest, prompting debate about whether contempt laws should be amended to allow greater transparency in certain circumstances. LBU's Kate Astall's doctoral work explores the relationship between the media and the criminal justice system, with a focus on contempt of court laws and their impact on the press and the trial process. Drawing on their complementary expertise, the LBU duo submitted a joint response to the supplementary consultation. The Law Commission has now published the first part of its report on contempt of court reform, with both Leeds Beckett academics cited and quoted extensively throughout the document. A second report, expected in spring 2027, will include a draft Bill setting out the commission's proposed legislative reforms. About the work, Kate Astall says: "Contempt plays an important role in safeguarding the judicial process. It's imperative that the law is clear and consistent. The work undertaken by the Law Commission is both necessary and timely and it's great that my research can contribute to this process." The recognition of their work by the Law Commission highlights the impact of necessary research at Leeds Beckett University and demonstrates how academic expertise can contribute directly to the understanding and development of national law and policy.
The event welcomed guest speakers Mark Evans, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, alongside Sophie Hudson (Weightmans), Dan Allison (Ison Harrison), and Ernie Motiejunas (Ministry of Justice), with thanks to the Law Society's Steven Drew, who brought the event together. Through a series of talks and discussions, the panel shared insights into their own career journeys and offered practical advice to help students understand the many pathways into law. New to the role as of October 2025, Mark Evans is the 181st President of the Law Society of England and Wales, with over 28 years of experience in law and four years as a lecturer. He says: "There are still significant challenges for prospective solicitors, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. "I want to ensure young people are aware of the routes they can take to qualify and are confident that their legal education and training prepare them well for their careers. "It was wonderful to spend an afternoon with aspiring solicitors, junior lawyers and member of the Leeds legal community." Speaking about the President, Dean of Leeds Law School, Deveral Capps, says: "I am absolutely delighted that the President of the Law Society of England and Wales made the journey to Leeds to talk about something as important as social mobility. It was a joy to host him." About the event, Dr Rachel Dunn, Interim Head of Subject (Postgraduate) at Leeds Law School, says: "Events like this give our students invaluable exposure to the profession, helping them to connect their studies with real-world practice and to see that there are many routes into law." Third-year Leeds Law student, Neve Bartleson, who attended says: "I have taken away so much from this. Previously, I had no idea on how to start the process for the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination), but after this talk I feel a lot more secure in going for training contracts and going through the paralegal route to kick-off my career. This is all brand-new to me and it's so important for me to see representation - it has been very inspiring. "It's great to have these talks alongside the course, as it reassures your choice and you can take inspiration from people you aspire to be like." Leeds Law School has a rich heritage and is a key educator of legal professionals in the Leeds and West Yorkshire region. It works extensively with law firms and other businesses to support students with work placements and encourages employers to hire talented graduates that will energise their team and support the local community.
Recent reports indicate that we spend on average around 80 to 90,000 hours at work. Professor Dickinson's lecture drew on her research into professional identity and its impact on career development, and she shared her own advice on how to make sure we enjoy such a large proportion of our lives. Taking place on Wednesday 12 November, the lecture explored the importance of being yourself and finding your people within the workplace, with a holistic look at professional identity and career transitions. A former lawyer turned academic, Professor Dickinson uses creative methods in her work - from participatory sketches to the power of objects to tell stories - to explore how individuals experience and navigate professional change. Jill's lecture also reflected on stories from her own career journey, offering insight, encouragement, and practical advice for those managing transitions in their own working lives in the modern 'squiggly' career paths. Professor Dickinson said: "It is an honour to have delivered my inaugural lecture as Professor at Leeds Beckett University. Thank you to everyone who came along. "Work is a huge part of our lives and our identities, so it is important that we can find a place where we can be ourselves and enjoy - rather than endure - our careers. I am fascinated by that process of transition and discovery, and hope to help others with it, too." The lecture forms part of Leeds Beckett University's inaugural lecture series, which celebrates new professors and showcases the real-world impact of their research. Find out more and book onto future Inaugural lectures.
Frances Crook OBE, who was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws in 2018, was recognised for her public campaigning as the Chief Executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, a leading penal reform charity. She led the Howard League for Penal Reform from 1986 to 2021 and made outstanding use of criminological research to reduce the imprisonment of young offenders in favour of more humane rehabilitation programmes. Her research work and campaigning led to a reduction of 85% in the number of children under 18 in prison and the annual number of arrests of children dropped by 80%. At a ceremony in Stockholm last night, Frances was presented with her award by HM Queen Silvia. Anne Ramberg, chair of The Stockholm Prize in Criminology Foundation, said: This year, like every year over the past twenty years, the laureates have demonstrated the benefit of criminology to humankind. It is therefore logical that their focus the efficiency of prison sentences is also of relevance in the public debate. This demonstrates the important knowledge base that is gathered when we once again welcome the worlds leading criminologists to Stockholm. The prize is awarded for outstanding achievements in criminological research or for the application of research results by practitioners for the reduction of crime and the advancement of human rights. Find out more about the Stockholm Prize here.
The Law Commission, a government body that reviews and recommends legal reforms is currently examining contempt of court laws. Dr John McGarry, a senior lecturer in law at Leeds Law School, Leeds Beckett University, has been cited extensively in this review following his research into political and constitutional concerns around the existing contempt of court laws. In Dr McGarry's research article, he explores the potential conflict of interest that arises when the Attorney General, themselves a political figure, holds the power to decide whether to prosecute contempt cases involving other politicians. Referenced 23 times in the Law Commission consultation paper, Dr McGarry's research is now shaping the discussion on potential changes to the law, particularly regarding the role of the Attorney General. Contempt of court laws are designed to protect the integrity of the legal process. Disrupting court proceedings, disregarding a court order, or publishing material (including social media posts) that could prejudice a trial can all lead to contempt charges. The offence is serious, carrying penalties of up to two years in prison or unlimited fines. Contempt through publication has more recently come under the spotlight, with a number of high-profile figures and politicians making public comments that risk influencing legal cases. McGarry's research cites recent instances where politicians including Suella Braverman, Jeremy Hunt, and David Cameron came close to committing contempt by publishing tweets or comments about active cases. Currently, only the attorney general - a government minister appointed by the Prime Minister - holds the power to initiate legal proceedings for contempt of court, including against other politicians. This, McGarry argues, is inherently problematic and poses a serious conflict of interest. Dr John McGarry, senior lecturer in law at Leeds Law School, Leeds Beckett University, said: "The law of contempt is very important because it maintains the authority, dignity and fairness of the legal justice system. But the law of contempt has developed in a piecemeal fashion and is now needlessly complicated and messy. The Law Commission are consulting on how contempt may be simplified and updated for the current age. I'm incredibly pleased that my work has influenced some of the commission's thinking on this and look forward to further influencing the reform of the law in this area." Dr McGarry's work has resonated strongly in the Law Commission's consultation on contempt, influencing not only discussion but also the questions posed in the consultation. If the attorney general's role in prosecuting contempt is reformed, in part influenced by this research, it would mark a major shift in ensuring the impartiality and credibility of the legal process.
Rachel Armitage brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to advancing research with real-world applications, further strengthening Leeds Law School as a leading educator of legal professionals in Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire region. With a research career spanning over three decades, Rachel has made significant contributions to crime prevention and public safety. She has worked extensively on projects designed to reduce crime through environmental design which have influenced local, national and international planning policies. As an invited member of the Home Office National Burglary Taskforce and National Vehicle Crime Working Group, Rachel has also published three books in this subject area - Crime Prevention through Housing Design (2013), Retail Crime (2018), and Re-building Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (2019). Her current research focuses on critical issues such as the impact of domestic violence on children and families, child protection, and online child sexual abuse (CSA). She is a founding member of the Indirect Victims of Indecent Images of Children Strategic Group, and her research has influenced changes in policy and practice, including the Centre for Expertise in Child Sexual Abuse guidance for social workers, the Lucy Faithful Foundation's Faithful Paper and pushing for changes in police policy at warrants and through the criminal justice system. Professor Deveral Capps, Dean of Leeds Law School, said: "We are delighted to welcome Professor Rachel Armitage to Leeds Law School. Her extensive research expertise and leadership will be instrumental in advancing our strategic goals and strengthening our research profile. We are confident that her vision will help deepen our engagement with key stakeholders within the region and beyond with her research that brings about real change." Professor Rachel Armitage, said: "I am delighted to be joining Leeds Beckett Law School as a Professor of Law and Social Justice and Director of Research. As someone whose research is focused on the impact of the criminal justice system on victim/survivors as well as the families of those suspected/convicted of sexual violence, I am excited to join such a talented team, to collaborate on existing research and to develop new and innovative research opportunities." Rachel's dedication to advocacy is further demonstrated through her roles as Deputy Chair of Trustees for the Marie Collins Foundation and founder of the Leeds-based charity Talking Forward, supporting families affected by online CSA. As Director of Research, Rachel will support initiatives that reflect the school's dedication to real-world solutions and its commitment to producing graduates who are equipped for the legal profession in Leeds and the wider region. Leeds Law School works extensively with law firms and other businesses to support students with work placements and employers to hire talented graduates who will energise their team and support the local community. Professor Rachel Armitage is currently a Professor in Criminology at the University of Huddersfield and will join Leeds Beckett University's Leeds Law School in January 2025.
QS Stars is a rating system which evaluates universities across a wide range of categories, covering everything from graduate employability to sports facilities and community engagement. As well as being rated 5-stars and 'excellent' overall, 5-star ratings were also achieved for seven out of the nine assessed categories which reflect a great student experience for UK and international students. These include the university facilities, subject ranking, employability, good governance, environmental impact, global engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. LBU's 5-star rating includes a standout performance in the diversity, equity, and inclusion category, excelling in metrics related to disability support services, initiatives for underrepresented groups, gender balance among students and staff, and the presence of a strategic framework promoting EDI. LBU's commitment to environmental sustainability was also recognised with a perfect score for its climate action plan. Professor Peter Slee, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University, said:"The 5 star rating from QS is welcome recognition of all the hard work and dedication across the university which creates an excellent experience for our students. "Our environmental impact and inclusive approach are core to our values, so it is hugely rewarding to see such positive results reflected in the QS ranking." Known for its thorough and independent analysis, the QS rankings allow students to get a wider picture of an institution's qualities and find universities that match their interests, priorities, and goals. The rating follows Leeds Beckett ranking among the top 30 universities in England in the independent annual National Student Survey earlier this year.
The high-level Security Council debate on Cybersecurity, which took place at the United Nations headquarters in New York, was a signature event of the Republic of Korea's June presidency and was chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cho Tae-yul. Professor Nnenna Ifeanyi-Ajufo's invitation to brief the UN Security Council highlights her expertise in the global discourse on cybersecurity. She addressed the Security Council alongside the UN Secretary-General Antnio Guterres and Stphane Duguin, CEO of the CyberPeace Institute. The United Nations Security Council is increasingly focused on addressing the critical role of cybersecurity in maintaining international peace and security. The recent debate aimed to foster a unified approach among member states to enhance the Security Council's effectiveness in addressing cyber threats. During the debate, council members discussed national cybersecurity priorities, emphasising the national security implications of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. Discussions also covered the impact of digital technology misuse on human rights and democratic processes. Nnenna Ifeanyi-Ajufo, Professor in Law and Technology at Leeds Beckett University, said: "It is important for the Security Council to develop mechanisms for understanding the cyber threat landscape across regions. This will allow for making informed decisions on regulating security and stability. "Existing cooperation between the UN and regional organisations in maintaining international peace and security should now include an agenda on cybersecurity." Nnenna's teaching and research interests focus primarily on the governance of digital technologies, cybersecurity, digital rights, and the rule of law in cyberspace. She is a Technology and Human Rights Fellow at the Carr Centre for Human Rights Policy at Harvard University and Chair of the Cybercrime Working Group of the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE). She has partnered with various organisations to deliver research projects aimed at shaping academic and policy discourses on the governance of digital technologies. Leeds Law School is a key educator of legal professionals in the Leeds and West Yorkshire region and works extensively with law firms and other businesses to support students with work placements and employers to hire talented graduates who will energise their team and support the local community.
Guests including Lord Mayor of Leeds, Abigail Marshall Katung, President of the Law Society for England and Wales, Nick Emmerson, Jason Pitter KC, Leader of the North Eastern Circuit, and Leeds Beckett Vice Chancellor, Professor Peter Slee, joined the celebrations. The new home for Leeds Law School provides state-of-the-art facilities that will allow students to work alongside legal academics and learn in an environment that will promote deep learning and develop critical analysis. The building includes a Havard lecture theatre, immersive simulation suite, a courtroom with a jury deliberation room, a reading room and social learning areas. These spaces will support students to expand their knowledge of the legal profession and provide an ideal platform to launch their career. The national charity Support Through Court have a dedicated space within the new premises to support members of public to represent themselves in court. Deveral Capps, Dean of Leeds Law School at Leeds Beckett, said: "The launch of our new school marks the beginning of a new chapter in legal education, learning, growth and community here at Leeds Law School. "This building is for our students, where they will not only learn the laws that govern our society but the values that underpin them. They will engage with ideas and cultivate the skills that will enable them to become thoughtful, compassionate advocates of justice. They are the future of our legal systems, and it is our hope within these walls that they find the inspiration to reach their highest potential." Amelia Bodenham, second year LLB Law student at Leeds Law School, said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed the past two years and everything that Leeds Law school has to offer. What makes Leeds Law School standout is that every member of staff wants the best for you. "I have been involved with Support Through Court, a charity that helps people access justice working with real life clients. This experience, along with the invaluable skills I have learned, have helped me secure an internship and a position as a paralegal. "I didn't think I would have such valuable experience at this point in my legal journey and I wouldn't be in this position if it weren't for the opportunities at Leeds Law School. I know even after I graduate, I will always be a proud part of the university." Nick Emmerson, President of the Law Society for England and Wales, said: "Thank you to the university for investing in the city and in the Law. The sector is hugely important in Leeds and fundamental to society. "I always tell people that Leeds is a great city with high quality jobs here in the legal profession. The Government legal department are proud of the growth in the city, and the great talent that is fostered in Leeds." The new Law School development reflects the growing partnerships of the university within the region and further strengthens Leeds' position as the legal capital of the North. Leeds Beckett University places huge importance on its role as an Anchor institution in Leeds and the wider region, maximising the benefit its presence delivers to local communities. Leeds Law School is a key educator of legal professionals in the Leeds and West Yorkshire region and works extensively with law firms and other businesses to support students with work placements and employers to hire talented graduates that will energise their team and support the local community.
