CoSA is an evidence-informed approach to community reintegration and public safety.
For more than two decades, researchers in Canada and internationally have studied Circles of Support and Accountability and their impact on sexual reoffending, community reintegration and risk management.
Explore research, publications, media coverage and resources that help explain the CoSA model and its impact.
What does the research tell us?
Research on CoSA has been conducted in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and other jurisdictions. Studies have examined whether participation in CoSA can reduce sexual reoffending and support successful community reintegration.
Overall, the research has found promising evidence that CoSA can reduce reoffending among people at elevated risk, particularly when Circles provide consistent support and accountability.
Research has also highlighted the importance of trained volunteers, strong staff coordination and a structured approach to risk management.
Research
CoSA Ottawa in the Media
Featured on an Hour to Give with Sam Laprade
On An Hour to Give, Michaela De Curtis, CoSA Ottawa Program Director speaks with Sam Laprade about CoSA’s work and the importance of supported reintegration for individuals convicted of sexual offences.
The Globe and Mail – Loss of federal funding puts national rehabilitation group for people convicted of violent sexual offences at risk
The Globe and Mail examines the impact of the loss of federal funding on community-based rehabilitation and reintegration programs serving people convicted of sexual offences.
The article highlights the important role that organizations like CoSA play in supporting people returning to the community while promoting accountability and public safety—and the challenges organizations face when short-term or project-based funding comes to an end.
Read the article in The Globe and Mail
The Globe and Mail article may require a subscription to access.
CoSA Ottawa in the Ottawa Citizen
The Ottawa Citizen highlights the work of Circles of Support and Accountability in Ottawa and the role of community-based support and accountability in helping people returning to the community after incarceration.
The article provides an opportunity to learn more about CoSA Ottawa’s approach and the people who contribute to building safer communities.
Read the article in the Ottawa Citizen
Featured on CBC Radio’s All in a Day
In January 2026, CoSA Ottawa Program Director Michaela De Curtis spoke with CBC’s All in a Day about community safety, accountability, reintegration and the importance of sustaining prevention-focused programs.
