Invitation to Tender: Young adults in the criminal justice system

27th March 2015

Note: deadline extended to 27th March 2015.

IPRT is currently inviting tenders for a research project on the specific mental health needs and provision for young adults in the criminal justice system.

Context

IPRT’s Turnaround Youth project advocates for the differential treatment of young people aged 18-25, and in particular those aged 18-21, within the criminal justice system. Young adults are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system. While 9% of the general population is aged 18 to <25, this age group makes up 20% of the daily prison population in Ireland, and just under one-third of annual committals. (Figures based on Census 2011, Dáil Questions, and Irish Prison Service Annual Reports.) This group, which is at the highest risk of reoffending, is also the group with the greatest capacity for change.

Phase I of the project included a broad review of research evidence; development of an issues paper informed by the evidence and youth consultations; direct advocacy; and a campaign website. Phase II builds upon this work, with particular emphasis on responses to young adults with mental health issues in the criminal justice system.

Invitation to Tender

IPRT has secured funding from The Ireland Funds to commission high quality empirical research identifying more effective responses to young people aged 18-21 with mental health issues at key points of intervention throughout the criminal justice system.

IPRT now invites tenders to deliver a research paper which examines current mental health provision for young people in contact with the criminal justice system, describes international best practice, and formulates evidence-based policy recommendations.

Full details are available here.

Tenders should be submitted by e-mail to director@iprt.ie  by noon on Friday 27 March 2015