Research

Applications to conduct research within HM Prison Service must be made on the standard application form. This form and associated guidance (including address details of where to send completed application forms) can be accessed via the link at the bottom of the page.  Applications should be fully completed and all supporting documentation must be attached on headed paper e.g. questionnaires, ethics approval, consent forms, CVs etc.

To whom researchers should send their research application form depends on the number and type of prisons that they would like to access. A summary of the process is presented below:

Where the research is taking place	Who should receive and review the application
One establishment	Governor/Research Contact
More than 1 establishment in 1 Prison Service Area	Area Psychologist
A number of establishments nationwide	National Research Committee national.research@hmps.gsi.gov.uk
National Strategic Research – including research to be published by the Home Office or sent to Ministers, research that will cost more than £10K or more than 30 staff working days	Research, Development & Statistics – National Offender Management Service

Researchers will be notified in writing of the decision. If the application is denied, reasons will be provided. Researchers are allowed to resubmit an application addressing the original concerns, if they wish to do so.

You should be aware that national research applications can take up to 3 months for approval due to further information sometimes being required.

PSO 7035 is currently being re-written and will be re-published later in 2008. In the meantime if you have any queries you can contact national.research@hmps.gsi.gov.uk.

Please Note: This research process relates only to individuals within universities or other appropriate bodies applying to conduct research. It is not applicable, and no information can therefore be provided, to individuals making family history enquiries.