The initial element of the module will focus on discussing victimological theory, and will analyse concepts such as;
conventional victims
non-conventional victims
victimisation
victimology and zemilology
crime and harm and neglect committed by the powerful – case studies will be used.

The focus of the second part of the semester will also provide opportunity to explore how to work with victims of crime using a restorative and trauma informed approach. Consideration to contributing factors to vulnerability and risk of victimisation and re-victimisation will be observed, as well as consideration to wider media, social and political influence and responsibility.

Students will critically analyse the victim charter, guidance, protocols, policies and legislation related to the rights of victim and improving victims' experiences of the criminal justice process.

The assessment will be an essay or presentation (you may choose which format) based on a case study. You will base your assignment on a real case study involving trauma. The case study will be delivered in the form of a video. You will be expected to report on dealing with such case using a trauma informed approach.

Scheduled learning and teaching sessions will include lectures, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork, and drop-in support sessions prior to assessments. Formative work and case examples will assist students to complete the assessment, through in class exploration of different cases and guidance provided on how to identify important aspects and discuss appropriately. You will also have the opportunity to gain feedback on part of your summative assessment prior to the submission.

1. Demonstrate contemporary knowledge of victimology theories, concepts, and professional practice within victim support

Knowledge and understanding

2. Conduct critical research using digital academic databases to the context of gender, power and sexual violence

Research skills; Digital literacy

3. Communicate the practical implications of research findings from literature in the field of victimology and apply to real case studies.

Communication; Application & problem solving

4. Evaluate trauma-informed approaches to supporting victims, applying relevant victimology concepts to assess multi-discipline professional responses within real case scenarios.

Critical reasoning and collaboration

Bramley, G., Fitzpatrick S. and F. Sosenko, F. (2020) “Mapping the ‘Hard Edges’ of Disadvantage in England: Adults Involved in Homelessness, Substance Misuse, and Offending,” Geographical Journal 186, no. 4 - 390–402.

Corteen, K., Morley, S., Taylor P., and Turner, J. (Eds.) (2016). A companion to crime, harm and victimisation. .Bristol United Kingdom: Policy Press.

Harland, J., Adams,E.A., Boobis, S., Cheetham, M. Wiseman, A. and Ramsay, S.(2022) “Understanding the Life Experiences of People with Multiple Complex Needs: Peer Research in a Health Needs Assessment,” European Journal of Public Health 32, no. 2, PP 176–190 https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckab142.

Daniels, S, J. (2016) Working with the Trauma of Rape and Sexual Violence: A Guide for Professionals

Wood W., R. (2023). Restorative Justice and Trauma: Responding to the Needs and Misdeeds of Young People with Trauma Histories. Child Adolescent Trauma.17(2) pp 335-348. doi: 10.1007/s40653-023-00589

In this module, you will embark on a thought‑provoking exploration of victimisation, social harm, and the diverse experiences of those affected by crime and injustice. In the first half of the semester, you will delve into the core concepts of victimology, examining who society recognises as a “victim” — and who it often overlooks. You will investigate conventional and non‑conventional victims, unpack the processes of victimisation, and engage with key ideas such as victimology, zemiology, crime, and social harm. Through captivating case studies, you will analyse the hidden harms committed by the powerful and the ways these acts are silenced or minimised.

As you move into the second half of the module, you will shift from theory to practice. You will explore what it means to work effectively with victims of crime using restorative and trauma‑informed approaches. You will consider the factors that increase vulnerability and contribute to victimisation and re‑victimisation, while also examining how media narratives, political decisions, and social attitudes influence public perception and responsibility. You will critically analyse the Victims’ Charter, alongside the policies, guidance, protocols, and legislation shaping victims’ rights and experiences within the criminal justice system.