Consequence of a Criminal Record for those with prior Sexual Offence convictions

• In Event: Non-Criminal Justice Responses to Delinquency Panel 2

Abstract

The desistance journey for individuals with a history of sexual offending is complex, often compounded by societal perceptions that they are less likely to be rehabilitated. Employment can reduce reoffending by providing structure, purpose, and a sense of responsibility. It also helps individuals with a criminal history build self-esteem and financial independence, essential for successful reintegration into society. However, those with a sexual offence history face additional barriers due to their criminal records. Our research focuses on the specific challenges encountered by individuals with a sexual offence history in the United Kingdom ‘UK’, highlighting the obstacles they face in securing employment and the impact on their desistance journey. In the first paper, employability decision-making for those with a sexual offence conviction was examined using a public-facing job role. The second paper scrutinises the hiring decision-making process using a non-public-facing role. This talk will provide a comprehensive overview of both studies, supplemented by practitioners' reflections. By integrating data from our experimental research with practitioner insights, we can examine the key barriers faced by individuals in the UK. Our findings provide insights into hiring decision-making strategies, offering a nuanced understanding of the complex challenges that individuals with prior sexual offences encounter as they strive to secure meaningful employment opportunities.

Author

• Cody Normitta Porter, UWE Bristol