A retrospective exploration of the perceptions and experiences of females affiliated with UK gangs

Aims: This study explored the perceptions and experiences of females previously affiliated with UK gangs, with the aim of informing preventative work and approaches to support desistance. Method/ Rationale: Gang research has historically centred on males, with only a more recent and emergent understanding of girls’ pathways into, through and out of gangs developing. This study sought to contribute to this by amplifying the voices of women with lived experience. A qualitative approach was adopted, using semi-structured interviews with five women aged 24–29 who had joined gangs between the ages of 12 and 16 and had been disengaged for at least four years. Reflexive thematic analysis, conducted with an inductive and experiential orientation, explored experiences across three phases of gang affiliation: joining, relationships within gangs and leaving. Findings: Findings indicated that girls’ entry into gangs was shaped by unmet emotional needs, adverse home environments and the perceived social and financial opportunities associated with gang membership. Once involved, their experiences were characterised by coercion, grooming, gendered power dynamics and sexual exploitation, often exacerbated by limited understanding of healthy relationships. Leaving typically occurred following significant life events but was hindered by fear, threats and limited professional awareness. Holistic, trauma-informed and sustained support was crucial for successful transitions away from gang affiliation. Limitations: The study draws on a small sample size, given challenges with recruitment. Through pragmatic challenges with accessing participants who are currently or recently gang-affiliated, data was gathered retrospectively, with some experiences occurring over ten years ago. This is important, particularly considering how advances in technology and the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced gang affiliation and county lines. Conclusions: This study highlights the interconnections between the impact of environmental, societal and personal factors on the women’s affiliation with gangs, gang relationships and leaving gang affiliation within the UK. It illuminates the need for bespoke intervention and preventative work for girls at risk or currently gang-affiliated, which is informed by the voices of females within the context of their personal and community influences.