Evidence-Based Research

The problem-solving approach means the adoption of an evidence-based system. An evidence-based approach to crime and disorder reduction has distinct elements that make use of:

• locally gathered evidence to identify and analyse problems and develop solutions.

• locally gathered evidence to monitor (and in some cases evaluate) the effectiveness of solutions.

• a wide range of evidence drawn from national and sometimes international sources to inform data analysis and the choice of solutions - the so-called ‘what works’ agenda.

The problem-solving approach should be driven by local evidence. Using national and international evidence on what works requires some consideration before applying them locally:

• None of the initiatives identified as promising will control crime on its own. There is a need for integrated packages that amount to a holistic approach.

• Multiple interventions are generally more effective, and more cost-effective than initiatives with a single focus. Ideally, they should include situational and social crime prevention.

• Initiatives should be targeted on high crime locations for maximum effect.

• Some initiatives will have an impact in the short-term, but not the long-term.

• Some initiatives will have an impact in the long-term, but there will be other, earlier, beneficial interventions that can be monitored and evaluated in the short-term.

‘Reducing Offending: An Assessment of Research Evidence on Ways of Dealing with Offending Behaviour’ Home Office Research Study 187 London: Home Office http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/pdfs/hors187.pdf

‘Not Rocket Science? Problem-Solving and Crime Reduction’, Crime Reduction Research Series Paper 6 London; Home Office http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/prgpdfs/crrs06.pdf