«This fascinating study uses extensive archival research to reframe our understanding of the everyday operation of probation in 20th-century Britain. Full of rich material about the dynamics of private life, the book will be of interest not just to scholars of policing and criminal justice, but to historians of the family, marriage, and sexuality.»

Adrian Bingham, Professor of Modern British History, University of Sheffield, UK

«Probation and the Policing of the Private Sphere in Britain, 1907–1921 is an important contribution to the social and cultural history of modern Britain. Both in terms of teaching and research it will be of interest to scholars in a range of disciplines as well as to practitioners in the field of social policy and social work.»

Cultural and Social History

«A valuable addition to the literature on twentieth-century crime, Probation and the Policing of the Private Sphere in Britain also offers something to anyone interested in histories of marriage, gender, and social policy.»

Contemporary British History

«A unique look at probation in Britain.»

CHOICE

«An insightful and original account of probation, which provides a sensitive analysis of the comprehensive support provided towards families in need. Drawing on a rich range of new primary sources, this monograph offers important insights for historians of crime, the family, welfare, and of twentieth-century Britain.»

Dr Charlotte Wildman, Senior Lecturer in Modern British History, University of Manchester, UK

«Focusing on the private sphere, Settle offers a careful, nuanced examination of probation and its impact, framed by broad questions of patriarchy, domesticity, and sexuality, and the influence of religion and psychology. An innovative must-read for social historians, and those interested in crime, religion, professionalization, family, gender, sexuality, and experiences.»

Stephanie Olsen, Senior Researcher, Academy of Finland Centre of Excellence in the History of Experi