The climactic and physical elements of prison and their relationship with feelings of wellbeing are well documented by researchers such as Jewkes (2012, 2019) and Liebling and Maruna (2006). This context forms the backdrop to this presentation which explores participant led research design within an Irish case study of female prisoners who reside within a prison in development. The overall research project will evolve alongside the journey of these women as they prepare for their move to the new building, which has been designed from a trauma informed perspective.

The purpose of this specific presentation is to offer experience of participant led research with the women involved in the study. It will explore the innovative research opportunities that have emerged, such as photo-elicitation, creative writing and art (Richard and Lahman 2015). It will also document the challenges, for example, communication within the prison system, conflict between participants and the importance of a neutral position between staff and prisoner relationships (Van Eyk et al 2020). My experience will be valuable to future researchers wishing to navigate access into prison environments.

The research is ongoing; nonetheless an evaluation will be offered of the process to date and I will share some personal reflections about the emotionally turbulent nature of conducting a 2-year case study with incarcerated women, many of whom are mothers like myself.