USW and Wales Probation Service research collaboration

Katy Holloway, Professor of Criminology, and colleagues at the University of South Wales (USW), have been commissioned by the Wales Probation Service to evaluate the impact of Substance Use Officers (SUOs).

SUO’s support offenders on probation and have needs resulting from substance use. The role has been introduced as an innovative intervention by His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Services, as part of a larger plan to reduce reoffending.

The evaluation will consider how SUOs have been implemented within the system and how efficiently they are operating. An important element will be to investigate the practical reality of being an SUO and of working alongside probation staff.

The research will also assess whether the SUO’s are achieving their goals in terms of enabling people on probation to make better informed choices and to show resilience relating to substance use, whilst helping them to have a positive experience of the Probation Service.

Professor Holloway, who is also Head of USW’s Substance Use Research Group (SURG), said: “This research closely aligns with SURG’s mission to promote evidence-based practices that enhance the rehabilitation and reintegration of people with substance use needs. This research will take us into 2025 when we will report our findings to the Wales Probation Service.

“The impact of this research will be in terms of identifying best practice and optimising the performance of the SUO role and will help to inform decision-making regarding the continued funding of these new posts.”.

Emma Saha, Substance Use Project Manager, Wales Probation Service, said: “This evaluation is an exciting opportunity to evidence the positive impact embedding the Substance Use Officers role has on, not only offenders on probation, but on staff and consequently our service as a whole.

“The expertise, skillset, and knowledge these roles bring give an important and unique perspective which can shape and develop best practice as well as challenge perceptions and stigma associated with substance use.”