The Minister for Employment officially launched a £2.5bn European Social Fund (ESF) programme at Styal Prison today (Monday, 25th January).
Priti Patel announced the programme, which will fund employment, skills and inclusion projects - including support for offenders both in custody and in the community - during her visit to HMP Styal which is receiving ESF funding to help female prisoners get ready for the world of work.
Minister for Employment Priti Patel said "There is no better place to launch this funding than HMP Styal, where the money is already having such a positive effect. The funding announced today will support countless projects which are reaching out to people just like this one. It is an inspirational example of how the funding can change lives and move people closer to employment.
"The positive impact of the ESF programme will be felt across the entire country and is good news for communities, helping to maximise support for jobs and growth."
Under the programme trained work mentors will go into the prison to help inmates get support and address difficulties that might stop them entering employment when they leave prison, such as addiction, mental health issues or a lack of literacy. The project is part of an £18m ESF investment in the North West by the National Offender Management Service.
The Minister also visited the Clink Restaurant, an innovative project that trains prisoners to work in an eatery open to the public. Prisoners are able to gain experience and qualifications in a real workplace, preparing them for a career once they have served their sentences.
As well as visiting inside the prison and meeting some of the inmates benefiting from ESF funding, the Minister spoke to case managers, ESF stakeholders and partners at a ceremony at the restaurant.
Prisons Minister Andrew Selous said: "As we reform our prison estate, we are committed to providing prisoners with education, work and an opportunity to redeem themselves. That way we can reduce reoffending, cut crime and keep our streets safer.
"Providing meaningful training which offers prisoners a real opportunity to turn their lives around, develop skills and a real work ethic are key elements of helping prisoners find a job on release."
Minister for Employment Priti Patel added: "Groups like ex-offenders and people leaving care have more than most to prove and can make fantastic employees. Evidence shows they go the extra mile to secure results,stay in a job for longer, have a strong commitment to their employer and take less time off work. It's not just about transforming lives – it's also good business practice."
Comments
Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.