Real-World Advice from Entrepreneur Inspires Prison Learners
July 02, 2025Posted by:
Last month we welcomed David Thurston, founder of GreenTeck Global Ltd into one of our prison education classrooms at HMP Littlehey. David met with learners taking part in a business course that introduces the idea of self-employment. He listened to their business plans, offered feedback based on 30 years of running his own companies, and shared some of the lessons he’s learned along the way - both from what went well and what didn’t.
One learner said: “David engaged with us as humans rather than offenders, looking past our reasons for being in prison and inviting us to look forward and take opportunities that are available. I left the session with renewed optimism and hope that there are more employers like David who may offer a chance for a fresh start.”
W hen employers, no matter how big or small, spend time with people in custody, it gives learners a window into what running and working in a business actually looks like. It also helps shift mindsets, showing our learners that there are employers who are willing to listen, offer guidance, take people seriously and ultimately give them a second chance.
This session was part of a wider business course, but we also offer more in-depth self-employment programmes commissioned through the DPS framework, giving prisons the option to commission extended support that helps learners take their ideas further.
Thanks again to David for giving his time so generously and to all the employers who continue to be part of this work. Your involvement makes a real difference to how people in custody prepare for life after release.
July 02, 2025Posted by:
