Aidan Shilson-Thomas

I joined Reform as a Researcher in November 2018 with a strong interest in the challenges facing the Prison and Probation Service. Before starting here I was a member of the Independent Monitoring Board at H.M.P. Bristol, which is responsible for monitoring the Prison’s performance and the welfare of prisoners held there. I saw under-resourced staff working very hard to contend with mental ill-health, suicides, drug abuse, surging violence and recidivism. This led me to pursue a career with Reform, and I’m now enjoying the opportunity to work on a range of issues to see how public services can be improved.

I have an undergraduate degree in history and have worked as a Researcher for the Brigstow Institute at the University of Bristol. My research considered how industrial and technological developments in the 19th century impacted workers in what is now Bristol’s Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone. 

When I’m not at work I enjoy judo, attempting to cook (emphasis on attempting), live music and being outdoors. I recently walked the Pennine Way and hope I’ll get to try another trail soon.

Areas of interest

• Prison reform and rehabilitation
• Commissioning
• Digitisation

My favourite Reformer is... Mary Carpenter, a Bristol social reformer and abolitionist.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? Black coffee(s).

Contact: aidan.shilsonthomas@reform.uk