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The Ministry of Justice has partnered with leading UK businesses to enhance programs that assist ex-prison inmates in finding employment, aiming to reduce reoffending rates.
Under a new initiative by prisons minister Lord James Timpson, regional employment councils will be established, bringing together probation and prison services with local businesses and the Department of Work and Pensions.
These councils, as per the MoJ, will offer support to offenders on probation and those serving sentences in the community, expanding on existing job schemes.
CEOs from companies like Greggs, Iceland, and COOK will be part of these new councils.
“Helping former offenders secure stable employment is a proven method to reduce crime and enhance public safety,” stated Timpson, emphasizing that the initiative builds upon existing employment advisory boards set up in prisons across England and Wales.
Timpson, appointed as prisons minister during a challenging period for the prison system, aims to shift focus from retribution to rehabilitation.
With his background in prison reform advocacy, including initiatives like job hubs within prisons, Timpson has seen success in increasing employment opportunities for released inmates.
According to MoJ data, a significant portion of recorded crime is due to reoffending, highlighting the importance of stable employment for ex-offenders.
Business leaders like Rosie Brown of COOK and Julia Pyke of Sizewell C nuclear plant recognize the benefits of integrating ex-offenders into the workforce, emphasizing the positive impact on individuals and businesses alike.