Apprenticeships for prisoners

[edit] A UK first

ECA Member firm Kier Highways will become one of the first employers in England to offer apprenticeships to ex-prisoners.

The move comes after a change in the law which allows prisoners at open prisons to ‘earn while they learn’, and access apprenticeships with direct routes into jobs.

From 2025, the scheme is expected to be rolled out to up to 300 prisoners, who are out on license and nearing the end of their sentence.

[edit] Comment

Kier’s new apprentice said in Construction Management: “This opportunity means a lot to me, and I was over the moon when I found out I had been successful. It gives me the chance to prove to myself, my friends, family and the wider community that I am worthy and capable of being successful.

“I am appreciative to Kier and the team I have worked with during this process. It has been made clear to me that my convictions aren’t a barrier to my success or progression.”

Helen Redfern, chief people officer at Kier, added: “At Kier, we’re committed to having a more diverse workforce, with colleagues who have skills from a range of backgrounds; reflecting the wider community.

“This pioneering scheme allows us to diversify our workforce further, whilst benefitting prisoners who are nearing the end of their sentence, as well as reducing the likelihood of reoffending, benefitting communities across the country.”

This article originally appeared as ‘Kier to offer apprenticeships to prisoners' on the ECA news and blog site dated October 4, 2022.

--ECA

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