Public Perceptions of Sentencing -  Research Launched

Prof Cyrus Tata and Dr Rachel McPherson (Centre for Law Crime & Justice) are conducting research with Ipsos into public perceptions of sentencing.

The quantitative research has been commissioned by the Scottish Sentencing Council to help to guide its thinking about sentencing; its public engagement strategy; and the development of future sentencing guidelines.  The research will include a representative sample of the public. It is investigating both public attitudes to sentencing and also the extent of public knowledge.

Commenting on the research, Prof Cyrus Tata said:

We are delighted to be collaborating in this important research. We know that public perception of sentencing is a key driver of policy. That is why it is so important to investigate not only perceptions but also the state of public knowledge.