Did you know that many offenders leave prison having various vocational and academic qualifications, as well as work related certificates such as site safety cards?
The courses available vary from prison to prison they range from fork lift truck licences to plastering and catering to cleaning.
The Integrated Offender Management Unit, in partnership with prisons and local communities, have recently successfully secured long term self employment for a young man with a significant offending history, undertaking dry stone walling and farming.
The ex offender commented “I now have a sense of pride in myself; I feel like a member of the community and value the money I legitimately earn. I am confident that I will not re-offend, I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given and I no longer associate with those people who previously encouraged my offending.”
His employer said “I was initially a little apprehensive about employing someone with an offending background. However, I have gained a very competent and trustworthy worker, in a line of work where it is difficult to find skilled staff. He is very polite and I am encouraged with the ease he has picked up the work. He knew if he did not take this opportunity, he may never get another one and as such has committed himself one hundred percent.”
If you think you could help by offering an ex offender a opportunity of employment please contact Inspector Stephen Ball at Darlington Police Station on 01325 742 117.
[Download as PDF]