SRAG Members Visit HMP Ranby
May 30, 2024Posted by:
Yesterday three of our SRAG employer network visited HMP Ranby, where PeoplePlus delivers education to prisoners, to further understand the employment opportunities and challenges faced by those with a criminal record.
Key personnel focused on Social Value from Marston Holdings, BT and Smart Environmental Support Services along with colleagues from PeoplePlus were not only able to see the real challenges faced by people in prison but also to think laterally about what further opportunities employers like themselves can offer to both current prisoners and those who have been released and are seeking employment.
The visit allowed employers to identify potential collaborations, such as sponsoring industry workshops, offering interview preparation and conducting real or mock job interviews, and helping prisoners prepare for the modern job market. Many prisoners have never truly experienced or have a vastly different perception of the working world. Informal discussions with prisoners about their post-release ambitions were also part of the visit.
Beverly Bartels Social Value Propositions Manager at BT said ‘We were inspired by the determination of the men who want to do something on the outside.’
The forward thinking employers were eager to learn how they could further improve outcomes for prison leavers, drive change and through their SRAG network, help lead on institutional reform and shift attitudes to employing ex-prisoners.
Liz Squire, Head of Employer and Social Value Engagement at PeoplePlus observed “This is a great opportunity for the employers we work with, who are part of the SRAG network, to demystify the perceived barriers to employing former prisoners. There are significant benefits for both employers and society, which have been clearly put into context and demonstrated today”
May 30, 2024Posted by:
