Mapping Physical Activity and Mental Health Pathways
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mapping Physical Activity and Mental Health Pathways: A Feasibility Study into Trauma-Informed Care for Women in Custody.
IRAS ID
371185
Contact name
Natalie Hopkins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
n/a, n/a
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
Women in custody face staggering rates of trauma and mental health challenges (Bartlett & Hollins, 2018). While Physical Activity (PA) is a proven recovery tool, activity levels in female prisons remain exceptionally low.
This project aims to understand the prison’s current physical activity environment and women’s access, particularly with referrals through mental health. In addition, the project aims to qualitatively explore female prisoner perspectives towards exercise and healthcare/mental health staff's perspective on integrating physical activity into mental health pathways/care to be utilized as a clinical tool.
Phase 1 (month 2-3): I will audit HMP Low Newton’s physical activity (PA) landscape by reviewing timetables, facility inclusivity, and purposeful activity logs, while mapping the official mental health-to-PE referral pathways.
Phase 2 (month 3-4): Qualitative engagement will involve conducting semi-structured focus groups with 20–30 women (stratified by gym usage and mental health status). Focus groups will explore safety, health literacy, and emotional barriers. There will also be an opportunity for women to take part in an individual interview if they would prefer to not talk in a group setting.
In addition, I will conduct interviews with up to 5 mental health/healthcare staff which aim to evaluate how PA is currently integrated into treatment plans. Healthcare and prison leadership approvals are already secured.
Phase 3 (month 5-6): Analysis of the facilities audit and qualitative data will be synthesized to identify engagement gaps.REC name
London - South East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/LO/0378
Date of REC Opinion
26 May 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion