Leeds research will examine sexual harm prevention orders
A study announced on 5 October will investigate implementation and effectiveness; findings are expected to be presented by March 2027.
Leeds Beckett and University of Lancashire researchers will interview officers from five UK police forces and examine a sample of orders and case files. Government evaluation funding supports the project. The university says findings will be presented to the Cabinet and Home Office by March 2027.
Evidence period: this is a project announcement from 5 October 2026. The case-file period and sample size are not specified. Interpretation: safeguarding organisations may wish to watch for the eventual report. This announcement does not establish that the orders reduce reoffending, or that policy has changed.
Cost: unknown
Format: unknown
Coverage: UK research led in Leeds
What this could mean
Track the eventual findings; do not cite the announcement as evidence of effectiveness.
What remains uncertain
Research is underway; no findings, effect sizes or completed outcome evaluation are presented. The announcement does not provide a public participation or application route.
Source: Leeds Beckett University