Council releases findings from its Research Symposium

The Council, along with the Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research, and the Sentencing Academy hosted the Council’s second research symposium on 20 May 2025 at Edinburgh Law School, University of Edinburgh.

The symposium, chaired by Lord Beckett, Lord Justice Clerk and Chair of the Council, focussed on discussions around three central themes: the effectiveness of sentencing; public perceptions and awareness of sentencing; and the impact of research on sentencing practice and policy.

A full report of the event is now available to read, providing further insight into discussions that took place and how they could inform policy development. Videos of presentations at the event are also available to watch on our website offering a behind the scenes look at the important research being undertaken across the three themes of the event.

Lord Beckett said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome participants from across the UK and Ireland to the Scottish Sentencing research symposium.

“This symposium provided an opportunity to engage not only in the sharing of knowledge but in the exchange of ideas that will help inform future discussions regarding sentencing in Scotland. It is encouraging to see how events such as this continue to support the Council’s wider role in contributing to the development of sentencing policy and in promoting public understanding of sentencing.

“These discussions demonstrated both the diversity and depth of expertise among those with a professional and academic interest in sentencing, and I am pleased that the connections established and insights shared are already creating opportunities to widen networks and broaden understanding.”

The full research report and presentations are available on the Council’s website.