New scheme to support ex offenders into employment in Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has funded a new six-week training programme
A new six-week training programme aimed at helping ex-offenders transition into employment has been launched in Bedfordshire.
It's being funded by the county's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Tizard, with the aim to break the cycle of reoffending and support up to eight individuals with skills ranging from CV writing to job applications.
This marks the first accredited scheme of its kind in the area, delivered by the local organisation YouTurn Futures.
Participants will receive tailored guidance, AQA accredited modules, and assistance in lawfully disclosing their history to future employers.
National statistics highlight the importance of such programmes, with only 19.3% of people securing employment six weeks after release from custody, and 31.1% after six months.
John Tizard said “I am very pleased to be working with and funding YouTurn Futures to pilot a ground-breaking project to support prisoners and ex-prisoners to be better equipped to apply for jobs.”
"All too often ex-offenders leave custodial time in prisons without access to accommodation or employment.
"This project is designed to prepare ex-offenders to be ready to apply for jobs. This must be more than writing CVs, it must include confidence building and emotional support, as well as advice on how to seek employment."
Upon course completion, participants receive a follow-up phone call from Bedfordshire Police and Probation services.
Neill Waring from YouTurn Futures praised the programme, stating “IOM in Bedfordshire has a long history of innovation of supporting these entrenched offenders breaking away from crime. I am really proud of each of these individuals who have agreed with our Police and Probation colleagues to take part in this course.”