Desistance and Substance Use: An Exploration of the Support in the Community for Service Users on Probation with a Particular Focus on Alcohol Use

Duffus, Melindy (2025) Desistance and Substance Use: An Exploration of the Support in the Community for Service Users on Probation with a Particular Focus on Alcohol Use. Doctoral thesis, Birmingham City University.

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Abstract

This thesis is an examination of how effective support for substance use and desistance from crime, was within Staffordshire and West Midlands Community Rehabilitation Company (SWM CRC). This thesis provides insight into positive practice and identifies possible areas for change. Furthermore, with SWM CRC being a newly formed part-privatised element of the probation service at the time fieldwork being undertaken, it provides a unique insight into how support works within a part-privatised service. There is limited information from those receiving or delivering provision, on the level and effectiveness of substance use and desistance support, and the experiences of delivery, in Staffordshire and the West Midlands. Additionally, despite the legality of alcohol and its link to violent behaviour, the focus is often on generic substance use rather than alcohol. This research therefore intended to understand the service users’ and practitioners’ perspectives and experiences of what works, and what areas may need to change. Additionally, this thesis acts as a piece of contemporary history in acknowledging the experiences and challenges that can come from a part-privatised probation service, and therefore provide a basis for the future. The study adopted a qualitative approach, drawing on semi-structured interviews with 8 service users on probation, and 10 practitioners. The data collected was analysed using Hermeneutic Phenomenology (van Manen, 2016). There was a general positivity felt by service users regarding their probation provision, however there was a clear desire shown for less outsourcing, and development in the delivery of substance use support. Practitioners shared issues regarding the delivery of provision, particularly of supporting service users with treatment requirements, and the challenges of working within a part-privatised service.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Dates:	Date Event 17 January 2025 Accepted
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Substance Use, Alcohol, Desistance, Probation, Rehabilitation
Subjects:	CAH15 - social sciences > CAH15-04 - health and social care > CAH15-04-01 - social work CAH16 - law > CAH16-01 - law > CAH16-01-01 - law
Divisions:	Doctoral Research College > Doctoral Theses Collection Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > College of Law, Social and Criminal Justice
Depositing User:	Louise Muldowney
Date Deposited:	07 Feb 2025 15:14
Last Modified:	07 Feb 2025 15:14
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16129