For the first time, prisoners will embark on dedicated on-the-job learning programmes that have a direct route into work on release that will help keep offenders ‘on the straight and narrow’. Big name employers have already pledged their commitment to the scheme, with a wide range of job roles available to offenders including hospitality and cheffing.
The Government is exploring all avenues to boost the employability of ex-offenders when they leave prison – a key contributor to cutting crime. Ministry of Justice data shows, the proportion of ex-offenders in work six weeks after release increased by more than half between April 2021 and March 2022.
Skills Minister Andrea Jenkyns said: “This vital change to the law will not only help us to rehabilitate offenders, but it’s also plugging the skills gap for the future. Apprenticeships give employers dedicated new workers in sectors like construction and hospitality and it’s great to have such high-profile companies sign up to help prisoners turn their life around through work and training.”
Over the coming months, more and more employers covering all sectors of the economy will come on board to offer apprenticeship opportunities to prisoners, including Sheffield City Council, Co-op and Premier Foods.