The first prisoners to take up apprenticeships started work yesterday following a change in the law.
Legislation was changed on Friday to pave the way for prisoner apprenticeships, which ministers hope will help cut crime and reoffending as it will provide inmates with a direct route into work upon release.
Up to 300 prisoners who are eligible for day release and nearing the end of their time in open prison are expected to be recruited onto apprenticeships by 2025.
Large employers including pub group Greene King, retailer Timpson and construction firm Kier will take on prisoners as apprentices working as chefs, waiters and on highway maintenance projects.
