A new book from UWE Bristol colleagues is shining a light on how we can take a fresh approach to preventing sexual abuse.
Content note: This blog discusses sexual abuse and prevention.
The book, Developing and Implementing a Public Health and Criminological Approach to Tackling Sexual Abuse, has been written by Professor Kieran McCartan, Dr Anne Eason, Dr Sarah Senker, Dr Nick Addis, and Dr Cody Porter. It brings together years of research and collaboration across different academic disciplines, supported in part by a UWE Emerging Research Excellence (ERE) grant.
A new way of thinking
The authors argue that tackling sexual abuse should not be left solely to after-the-fact responses in the criminal justice system. Instead, they suggest adopting a public health and criminological model known as Epidemiological Criminology (EpiCrim).
EpiCrim looks at prevention through the socio-ecological model – from individual and interpersonal relationships, right through to communities and society. This means focusing on:
- Preventing first-time offending,
- Reducing repeat offending, and
- Addressing the life experiences and trauma that can lead to harmful behaviour.
By framing sexual abuse as a behaviour that can be prevented, treated, and understood, this approach encourages earlier interventions and more proactive solutions, alongside continued support for victims.
From research to practice
The book explores the roots of sexual abuse, how and where it happens, how society responds, and how people can be supported to safely re-enter communities after conviction. It highlights evidence from service users, victims, professionals, and policymakers, showing that prevention is possible with the right structures in place.
To help turn research into action, the UWE team have also created a policy briefing aimed at practitioners and policymakers. It makes clear recommendations, such as:
- Broadening prevention beyond individuals to communities and society,
- Coordinating multi-agency responses,
- Embedding trauma-informed approaches, and
- Expanding and funding victim support services.
These recommendations were also shared at a dedicated UWE Bristol conference, supported by a visual infographic designed to capture the key themes.
Sharing knowledge more widely
Before the book was published, Professor McCartan joined the UWE Let’s Talk Health and Care podcast to discuss the research and its real-world impact. The message is clear: sexual abuse is preventable, and change is possible if we take a more holistic, evidence-based approach.
Find out more