HELM was founded by Dr Joshua Stuart-Bennett, a dedicated academic and researcher with interdisciplinary expertise in criminology, sociology, psychology, and history. He holds a PhD in Criminology from the University of Leicester, which he pursued on a fully funded studentship after a competitive selection process. He obtained an MSc in Clinical Criminology from the same institution, where he received the Best Student Award for his outstanding performance. He was previously awarded a BSc in Psychology from Cardiff University. Joshua also holds Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy status.

Joshua’s passion for mentoring began over 20 years ago when his family fostered a young boy with Autism and Joshua took on an active role in his support.

Over time, he has consistently assumed a mentoring position and has grown to appreciate the significant advantages of assisting others in realising their potential, recognising the overall value of mentoring for everyone involved.

Joshua has worked as a Specialist Mentor for students with a wide range of backgrounds and abilities, including those with Autism, mental health conditions, disabilities, and other learning difficulties at University for over 7 years.

He has also worked as a Specialist Study Skills Provider, aiding students in enhancing their academic skills, for the last 5 years.

Joshua's research interests are varied and his research portfolio is extensive. Whilst his primary focus has been in historical criminology, he has worked on or managed projects in several diverse areas including the following:

  • Victorian Baby-Farming

  • The Socio-Genesis of Microdosing Psychedelic Drugs

  • The Impact of Digital Technologies on Workplace Wellbeing

  • Census@Leicester

  • Leicester’s Covid-19 Oral Histories

  • Barriers to Case Progression within the Criminal Justice System

  • The Impact of Suicide on Frontline Professionals

  • Post-War Brothels in Birmingham

  • Acid Crimes in Victorian England

Joshua is a published author. His recently published book, based on his PhD research, is titled: ‘Motherhood, Respectability & Baby-Farming in Victorian and Edwardian London’.