Ashleigh Whitwell

Lecturer in Criminology

School of Health and Wellbeing

Department of Community, Social Justice and Health

Contact Details

email: a.whitwell@worc.ac.uk

Ashleigh joins the University of Worcester while in the final stages of her PhD. This research is focused on understanding the physical, psychological and practical needs of older prisoners and whether those responsible for their care are appropriately meeting and responding to them.

Ashleigh worked in prison education from 2017-2026 and was primarily based at HMP Hewell. She has extensive experience teaching in prisons, working across a wide range of subjects (including Functional Skills English & Maths, ESOL and Mentoring) with adult males both convicted of an offence and on remand. In her most recent role, Ashleigh has worked as a Digital Learning Manager, supporting both learners and staff with using the digital technology available in prisons to enhance teaching, learning and assessment. In these roles, Ashleigh has worked in and visited many prisons across England and Wales.

Ashleigh is passionate about many aspects of Criminology and has a keen interest in prisons and punishment, rehabilitation, justice and factors that underpin criminal behaviour. Similarly, Ashleigh also has a passion for education, teaching and supporting learners with their individual learning needs. She is excited to transfer her existing teaching knowledge and experience across to higher education and support those undertaking their social science degrees.