Engaging women in health and justice research: A North Wales multi-agency approach

Women at risk of entering the criminal justice system (CJS) often face significant disparities, such as complex health needs and experiences of trauma, yet remain underrepresented in research. This paper presents a participatory, multi-agency methodology for conducting inclusive research with this group in North Wales. Developed through collaboration between health, justice, and third-sector organizations, the approach sought to build trust, enhance engagement, and generate a richer understanding of women’s health experiences. Drawing on practitioner-informed design, trauma-informed data collection, and community-based settings, the project demonstrates how cross-sector partnerships can overcome traditional barriers to participation. The paper reflects on how this model facilitated participation from a population that typically finds it difficult to engage in the research process whilst strengthening women’s trust and confidence. Findings highlight the potential of collaborative, place-based research as a social innovation for building inclusion, improving knowledge translation, and informing whole-system responses to women’s health and justice needs.