This social innovation narrative presents a collaborative, trauma-informed research model designed to engage women at risk of entering the criminal justice system in North Wales. The narrative draws on empirical research originally conducted by the Women’s Justice Blueprint and ACE Hub Wales, which explored women’s physical and mental health, substance use, and the barriers they face when seeking support. This narrative reframes this work through a methodological lens, illustrating how innovative, multi-agency approaches enabled deeper understanding and participation.
By demonstrating how collaborative research infrastructures can enhance access, voice, and data quality, this narrative shows how methodological innovation can support more effective and inclusive responses to women’s health and justice.