11 May 2026
A new research cluster at the University of Reading will examine offences including the theft of mobile phones by cyclists, as part of wider work linking crime and justice to long-term social sustainability.
The newly-created Crime and Justice Research Cluster (CJRC) brings together academics from Law, Psychology, Education, Economics and Politics to examine the root causes of crime and work towards safer, sustainable communities.
The group argues that crime and justice research is a vital component of social sustainability. By analysing crime patterns, victimisation and justice practices, the cluster aims to provide evidence that helps policymakers design more effective prevention strategies, address the causes of offending, and improve how the justice system responds to crime.
Rosa Walling-Wefelmeyer, lecturer in Criminology at the University of Reading, said: "Phone snatching from bikes is the kind of offence that can make people feel unsafe in their own neighbourhoods. When such incidents are not understood and addressed, they can contribute to broader patterns of social harm and insecurity.
Social sustainability is about building communities where people feel safe and institutions are trusted, and that means tackling phone snatching in context, including the social and economic conditions that shape it.
"When people hear the word sustainability they tend to think of the environment. But safe, cohesive communities are just as vital to long-term societal wellbeing, and that is what our research on crime and justice is about."
Sign-up to launch event
The cluster also focuses on identifying inequalities and biases within the justice system, with the aim of promoting fairness, accountability and public confidence.
The research cluster’s first major public event, a free conference titled Women, Girls and Justice: Contemporary Challenges and Debates, takes place on 13 May 2026 at the University of Reading's London Road Campus.
The conference will bring together policy experts, practitioners and community organisations from across the Thames Valley to explore key issues facing women and girls in the criminal justice system. Attendance is free. Places can be reserved at eventbrite.com.
Agenda for Women, Girls and Justice: Contemporary Challenges and Debates can be found via Eventbrite.
Image provided by Metropolitan Police
We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2027/28 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2026/27 courses.
