Opening doors to opportunity by supporting prison leavers into employment
Wates is strengthening its commitment to supporting prison leavers by introducing a new, innovative way to help them into meaningful employment.
The initiative connects individuals leaving custody with opportunities across Wates’ supply chain, helping to break down barriers to acquiring a job role and address skills shortages within the construction sector.
A key part of the activity includes dedicated recruitment events, known as Employer Connect Sessions, where prison leavers meet with multiple employers. These sessions enable individuals to demonstrate their potential beyond a curriculum vitae (CV), while giving employers direct insight into the skills, qualities and value candidates can bring to their business.
The events have already been successfully delivered at HMP Onley, where 19 prison leavers have been offered employment opportunities. Of these, 16 have already started work, with 12 having achieved, or currently working towards, sustained employment.
Participants are also supported through the Wates’ Barrier Removal Fund, which provides financial assistance to overcome practical challenges associated with transitioning into work.
Discover how we’re working together to help prison leavers find work
Seeing the impact of employment on individuals’ lives has been incredibly powerful. This programme is helping people rebuild confidence, reconnect with their families, and move forward with purpose. This experience has strengthened my commitment to champion this work going forward and ensure that Wates continues to play a meaningful role in creating positive and lasting change for prison leavers.”
Adam Cannon
Project Director at HMP Onley
The initiative has also been supported by the Ministry of Justice as it aligns with their focus on reducing reoffending through employment.
This demonstrates a clear commitment to delivering meaningful change. It creates real opportunities and instils hope for individuals who, for a variety of reasons, have found themselves within the prison system. What stands out most to me are the personal stories, the sense of pride, renewed confidence, and visible progress demonstrated. These stories serve as powerful evidence of what can be achieved when organisations move beyond compliance and truly invest in people”
Jo Fellowes
Principal Project Sponsor at the Ministry of Justice
Building on the success at HMP Onley, the initiative is now being rolled out across other Ministry of Justice Alliance projects being delivered by Wates, with the aim of achieving a target of securing employment for up to 100 prison leavers.
This work demonstrates how construction can deliver real social impact. By partnering with our supply chain, we are not only supporting individuals but strengthening communities and creating a sustainable workforce for the future.”
Daniel Proffitt
Social Value Manager at Wates
