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."
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.
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.
Support Through Court exists to provide practical and emotional support to people facing court alone without a lawyer. The support given by students extends the charity's capacity to deliver essential services to those in need. The partnership has a profound impact on local communities, ensuring that individuals facing legal challenges are not left to navigate the court system alone. Students from Leeds Beckett gain practical work experience through the partnership, allowing them to provide legal support to those going through the civil and family court system. They do so through a telephone service, face-to-face appointments, and attending court hearings, all of which will help them develop essential skills necessary to work in the legal field. Dr Rachel Dunn, Course Director of Pro Bono and Employability at Leeds Beckett University, said: "Leeds Law School is thrilled that our partnership with Support Through Court is helping so many members of the community, who otherwise would struggle to navigate the court system and access justice. "Our students have gained valuable skills from their work with Support Through Court and continue to grow in confidence and employability. Our partnership will continue to develop and further our joint social justice ethos of helping those who need it." Support Through Court's CEO, Emma Taylor, said: "Every year, thousands of people in the UK face court alone. Often through no choice of their own, they must represent themselves at a moment that could have life-changing outcomes such as loss of access to children or homelessness. "We are delighted to be working with Leeds Beckett University to ensure that as many people as possible have the support they need as they go through court without a lawyer. We are grateful to work in partnership and provide opportunities for students at the same time." Student volunteer, Reece, said: "If you want valuable legal experience to boost your CV and to help kick start your legal career Support Through Court is the best way to start. Offering experience in legal form filling, client meetings and attending hearings, it is the most accessible way to witness the Legal system firsthand. From one student to others, I highly recommend volunteering and getting stuck in. This is overall the best extracurricular opportunity to hone in on valuable skills for the legal profession." 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 a dedicated supporter of people in need of legal representation.
The new partnership will see students and solicitors work together to provide free legal advice to those who have suffered a personal injury. It will build on the service already provided by the Law Clinic at Leeds Law School, which has been advising members of the public for over 10 years on matters of family law, employment law and civil litigation. Hodge Jones Allen will work with law student volunteers to deal with personal injury enquiries via zoom calls to provide a fast response. Dr Rachel Dunn, Course Director for Pro Bono and Employability, said: "The new partnership between Leeds Law School and Hodge Jones Allen demonstrates our commitment to social justice and ensuring that those who need legal advice the most can access it. "It will also provide our students with the vital skills needed for life after university. It is an amazing opportunity for them to work closely with such experienced solicitors from a leading personal injury firm." Daniel Denton, Partner at Hodge Jones Allen, said: "We're delighted to be working with Leeds Law School and their students who will help support the public with personal injury enquiries. It's an opportunity for callers to speak directly to a highly experienced personal injury solicitor." 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. If you have suffered a personal injury and would like free legal advice from this service, or have any questions, please contact the Law Clinic at Leeds Law School by calling 0113 812 9190 or emailing lawclinic@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Ravi Singh Rathore, who completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice at the universitys Leeds Law School, is the winner of this years Trainee Solicitor of the Year at the Yorkshire Legal Awards. Ravi, who also completed a Bachelor of Law at the university, impressed judges with his commitment to his role both at and away from his desk. He received recognition for his extensive community work since joining law firm GT Stewart last year, which has seen him fundraise for the NSPCC, join the newly formed Sikhs in Law council promoting diversity in law, and carry out work internationally helping serve food and water to the homeless. Speaking about the award win, Ravi said: I really didnt expect it at all. It came as a complete surprise, especially with the shortlist of talented people in my category. This achievement would not have been possible without the support and guidance of my colleagues at GT Stewart. The award carries extra significance for Ravi, who despite having to wait several years after graduation to secure a Trainee Solicitor position, never gave up on his ambition to become a solicitor. A career in law is not for the light-hearted, I have worked a number of paralegal jobs before securing my Training Contract. Ive been able to pick up transferrable skills along the way which have helped me immensely. Ravi balanced his studies at Leeds Law School with full time and part time jobs and highlighted the importance of the support he received from lecturers, which helped him to keep on track during busy periods. The support I had from tutors was incredible, he added. If I had any questions, theyd always be on hand to help. Working jobs outside of university made things quite challenging, but they were always very understanding of that and supportive. Ravi initially chose a law degree to open doors to careers in a variety of different sectors, however, as he worked more with clients, he found his passion for helping vulnerable people during some of the most difficult periods of their life. I take a human approach to matters in my current role where I advise clients in public law children proceedings who are at risk of losing the most important thing in their lives. Im passionate about fighting for their rights. Ravis final advice to anyone thinking of studying a law degree is simply to be committed. If you show determination, face every challenge head on and believe in your ability, youll achieve what you want and more.
Dame Nerys was called to the Bar in 1986. She was educated at secondary level at Olchfa Comprehensive School, Swansea. She took her first degree in law at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford where she was a scholar in law, before accepting a Fulbright Scholarship to study in the USA, obtaining her Ll.M. from the University of Virginia. In 1988 Nerys became a member of Keating Chambers, specialising in construction and engineering dispute resolution, and in 2008 was appointed as Queens Counsel. Dame Nerys Jefford DBE said: "I am honoured and delighted to have been chosen by Leeds Beckett University as the recipient of an honorary doctorate from the School of the Built Environment, Engineering and Computing. "It emphasises the strong and positive relationship between those who develop the law in these areas and those whose activities in the construction and engineering industries are intertwined with the law, and how we all share the aim of promoting safe, sustainable, effectively managed and dispute free construction projects." For nearly 30 years, Dame Nerys represented clients from the UK and around the world in court, arbitration and adjudication in disputes arising out of a vast range of projects from residential and commercial property to major public works and infrastructure projects, shipbuilding, and offshore structures. A Bencher of Grays Inn since 2006, she is currently the Master of Moots and an advocacy trainer for the Inn. She was formerly Vice Chairman of the Bar Standards Board Education and Training Committee and also served on the Professional Conduct Committee. In 2016 Nerys was appointed as a Deputy High Court Judge and a High Court Judge, Queens Bench Division. She sits in the Technology and Construction Court, Administrative Court, Planning Court, and on some of the most serious Crown Court trials. In 2022, Nerys was made an honorary life member of the Society of Construction Law, after serving as a Councillor for many years and as its Chairman from 2007 2008. Professor Peter Slee, Leeds Beckett University Vice Chancellor said: "On behalf of all of our staff, students and Governors here at Leeds Beckett University, I would like to congratulate Nerys Jefford on this Honorary Degree. "I am delighted that the university is recognising her outstanding service to public life. Nerys has also been a strong advocate for education, having lectured on legal issues concerning the construction industry for the likes of the SCL, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and the International Bar Association, among others."