An evaluation of a violence reduction partnership network: mixed methods network analysis
ISSN: 1757-8043
Article publication date: 27 September 2023
Issue publication date: 2 January 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper was to report on the evaluation of the network and resources for violence prevention and reduction in the chosen area of focus. This area had experiences deprivation, significant implications due to Covid-19 restrictions and a lack of outdoor recreation space.
Design/methodology/approach
Network analysis methodologies are increasingly being used in criminological research and evaluations to assess the structures of social and economic networks. This study explored, using a mixed-methods network analysis methodology, the nature of the established violence reduction network in a specific geographical location in West Midlands.
Findings
A breadth of network activity is taking place across the community; however, the network analysis highlighted gaps in terms of specialist provision for early years and support from those with lived experience. It was perceived that a lack of continuity, in terms of changes in key roles, has affected the network. Funding mechanisms were perceived ineffective, and not encouraging of development of localisation services. Relationships between network members were predominantly positive with organisations having good communication and accessing support from one another; however, identifying shared goals and better collective working would benefit the network.
Originality/value
This study pioneers using an innovative, mixed methods network analysis to explore a public health approach to violence prevention and reduction. Quantitative data collection and analysis allowed for assessment of the networks capacity and density, whereas qualitative data provided insights and detailed accounts of how the network functions.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding: This work was funded by the Home Office via the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership core grant for Evaluation 2021–2022.
Ethical Approval: Ethical support was granted for this study from the University of [ANON]who was the lead university of the core grant.
Citation
Wilkinson, D., Thompson, A., Kerslake, D., Chopra, I. and Badger, S. (2024), "An evaluation of a violence reduction partnership network: mixed methods network analysis", Safer Communities, Vol. 23 No. 1, pp. 53-69. https://doi.org/10.1108/SC-07-2023-0028
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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