Getting a job is one of the single most important factors in preventing former prisoners from reoffending once they leave prison. Being employed provides them with the opportunity to earn money in a lawful way and make new connections. And at its simplest level, skills change lives.
But few people actually go on to find meaningful employment after release – often because they don’t have the skills they need. In fact, a recent report from the House of Commons Education Committee stated: “The proportion of former prisoners in employment one year after release is just 17%.”
When we also factor the desperate labour shortage right now, what a waste of talent to not see ex-offenders as part of that talent pipeline. And the more that can be done to help someone in prison transition directly into a job as they leave because they are given the right access to skills whilst still inside, is a win win.
