Podcast · Tech & Science

The Forensic Update Podcast

by The British Psychological Society · English · Tech & Science

The Division of Forensic Psychology promotes the professional interests of forensic psychologists and aims to contribute to the ongoing development of psychology as a profession and as a body of knowledge and skills.

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 30 min
Latest: 6 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026 · 37 min

10 - Dr Abi Willis: IPP Sentences, Risk Assessment and Safe Uncertainty

In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , Dr Rachel Worthington is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Abi Willis to explore one of the most complex and challenging areas of forensic psychology: risk assessment for people serving Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentences . IPP sentences were abolished in 2012, but not retrospectively, meaning people sentenced under the system can remain subject to its provisions. For those still in custody, psychological risk assessment can play an important role in informing decisions about risk, progression and eventual release. Dr Abi…

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Earlier episodes 9 most recent

13 Aug 2026 · 22 min
09 - Richard Shuker: Therapeutic Communities and the Power of Relationships
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Richard Shuker , Chartered and HCPC registered forensic psychologist and Head of Clinical Services at HMP Grendon, to explore the fascinating world of therapeutic communities within prisons. Drawing on decades of experience at Grendon, Richard discusses how therapeutic communities differ from more traditional approaches to rehabilitation, and why relationships, responsibility, community and a sense of belonging can play such an important role in helping people understand and change harmful patterns of behaviour. The…
15 Jul 2026 · 30 min
08 - Mary McMurran: Risk Assessment, Rehabilitation and the Future of Forensic Psychology
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Mary McMurran, one of the UK's leading forensic psychologists whose work has transformed our understanding of motivation, rehabilitation, personality disorder and forensic formulation. Drawing on an exceptional career spanning prisons, secure hospitals, academia and the Parole Board for England and Wales, Mary reflects on how forensic psychology has evolved over the past four decades and the challenges that continue to shape rehabilitation today. Together we explore: Mary's journey into forensic psychology and the mentors who…
1 Jul 2026 · 27 min
07 - Anthony Beech: Neuroscience, Rehabilitation and the Future of Forensic Psychology
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Anthony Beech, one of the UK's most influential forensic psychologists, whose work has shaped research, training and clinical practice for more than three decades. Professor Beech reflects on the evolution of forensic psychology, from early approaches to rehabilitation of those in custody through to today's growing understanding of neuroscience, adverse childhood experiences and compassionate, evidence-based interventions. The conversation explores: Anthony's journey into forensic psychology Why adverse childhood experiences…
17 Jun 2026 · 30 min
06 - Jane Ireland on Aggression, Cognition and Forensic Psychology
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Jane Ireland , Professor of Forensic Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University, Violence Treatment Lead at Ashworth High Secure Hospital, and Academic Lead for the Ashworth Research Centre. With more than three decades of experience spanning forensic practice, research, academia and violence treatment, Jane reflects on how forensic psychology has evolved and where the profession may be heading next. The conversation explores: How forensic psychology has changed over the past 30 years The shift from formulation to…
3 Jun 2026 · 29 min
05 - Understanding Sexual Harm Through a Trauma-Informed Lens with David Prescott
*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69904a6f-fa40-838c-b791-0a4c6bb92cea-1" data-turn-id-container= "request-69904a6f-fa40-838c-b791-0a4c6bb92cea-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-14" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by David Prescott , internationally respected mental health practitioner, educator and author…
S1 · E4 · 20 May 2026 · 35 min
04 - Dr. Caroline Logan: Curiosity, Humanity and the Future of Forensic Psychology
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Dr. Caroline Logan, consultant forensic clinical psychologist, honorary associate professor at University College London, and internationally respected expert in personality disorder, forensic interviewing, violence risk and extremism. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience across forensic mental health services, law enforcement and threat assessment settings, Caroline reflects on the human side of forensic psychology and the importance of curiosity, formulation and meaningful human connection in working with risk and…
S1 · E3 · 13 May 2026 · 39 min
03 - Professor Tony Ward: The Good Lives Model and the Future of Rehabilitation
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Tony Ward , internationally recognised forensic and clinical psychologist and creator of the Good Lives Model (GLM). Tony reflects on the development of the GLM and challenges some of the traditional assumptions that have shaped forensic psychology for decades. Together, we explore what rehabilitation should really look like, why reducing risk alone is not enough, and how meaningful human lives sit at the centre of lasting change. The conversation explores: The origins of the Good Lives Model Why offence categories can be…
S1 · E2 · 9 May 2026 · 13 min
02 - Sally Tilt on the Future of Forensic Psychology, Research Culture & Why Podcasts Matter
In this episode of the Forensic Update Podcast , we're joined by Sally Tilt , Chair of the Division of Forensic Psychology at the British Psychological Society. Sally reflects on the evolving landscape of forensic psychology, the importance of accessible research communication, and why podcasts have the power to bring academic work to life in a completely different way. From the future of research dissemination to the role of technology, artificial intelligence, and even virtual reality in forensic psychology, this conversation explores where the profession may be heading over the coming…
S1 · E1 · 23 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 17 min
Forensic Update 01 - Dual Harm, Sexual Boundaries and Prison Staff Neurodiversity
Welcome to the first episode of the Forensic Update podcast from the Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP) Division of Forensic Psychology | BPS part of the British Psychological Society (BPS). In this launch episode, we explore three urgent and complex issues shaping contemporary custodial practice. Deputy Prison Director Scott Newey discusses his research into dual harm in prisons, examining why some individuals engage in both self-harm and violence towards others and what can be done to reduce this. Dr Tanya Garrett from the University of Birmingham joins us to examine sexual boundary…

About The Forensic Update Podcast

The Forensic Update Podcast is a English tech & science podcast from The British Psychological Society. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: The British Psychological Society
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 30 min
Latest episode: 6 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1881912397

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