86% of employers who hire ex-offenders rate them as good at their job. If you’re an employer who’s unsure about ex-offender recruitment, we recommend reading our ex-offender employment success stories.
Many businesses across the UK are finding that ex-offenders bring valuable skills, a strong work ethic, and fresh perspectives to the table. By giving these individuals a chance, employers not only help break the cycle of reoffending, but also tap into a diverse talent pool.
In fact, hiring ex-offenders can be an excellent way to fill skills gaps and create a more inclusive workplace. More on this shortly.
To see real-world examples of companies successfully hiring ex-offenders, check out our list of UK businesses that are leading the way.
➡️List of Companies Hiring Ex-Offenders UK
The Benefits of Hiring Ex-Offenders
Employing ex-offenders can help businesses fill crucial skill gaps and boost workforce diversity. With a significant shortage of skilled workers in the UK, hiring ex-offenders provides a solution while also contributing to social responsibility.
Ex-offenders often have high loyalty and performance, and employment reduces their likelihood of reoffending. Companies can also benefit from lower recruiting costs by accessing this underutilised talent pool.
Learn more on our dedicated page on the Benefits of Employing Ex-Offenders.
4 Ex-Offender Employment Success Stories
Finding meaningful employment can reduce the chance of reoffending by 50%, transforming lives and benefiting society. Below are four inspiring examples of individuals who rebuilt their futures after completing their sentences.
John Burton: From Ex-Offender to Advocate for Change
After serving prison sentences for drug trafficking and money laundering, John Burton founded Inside Connections, a Liverpool-based non-profit helping ex-offenders build crime-free lives. The organisation trains prisoners in construction skills, creating pathways to stable employment post-release.
Burton’s initiative, which includes innovative programmes like day-release job training and a support app for families, has already transformed lives, such as helping a former heroin addict secure housing and employment. His work exemplifies how second chances can reduce reoffending and benefit society.
Read more about the story here.
KPMG’s Lifeline for Ex-Offenders
KPMG’s ex-offender recruitment programme has provided transformative opportunities for individuals often excluded from the job market. One participant highlighted the emotional toll of repeated rejections due to their criminal record, feeling that skills and experience were overlooked.
However, the programme offered renewed hope, describing the opportunity to work at KPMG as “a miracle” and a turning point. This initiative not only enables ex-offenders to leave their past behind but also helps them build a promising future, demonstrating the potential of inclusive employment practices.
Read more about the story here.
How James Timpson’s Vision Transformed Matt’s Life and Business Practices
James Timpson, CEO of Timpson and now the UK’s Minister of Prisons, Parole, and Probation, began hiring ex-offenders in 2002 after meeting an inmate named Matt. Inspired by Matt’s potential, Timpson offered him a job, and Matt later became one of the company’s top-performing branch managers.
Timpson’s initiative has since expanded to employ over 600 prison leavers, representing 10% of the workforce. This programme has a 75% retention rate, showcasing its effectiveness in reducing reoffending and promoting rehabilitation through meaningful employment.
Read more about the story here.
From Tent to Triumph: A Clean Sheet Success Story
A young man who was homeless after leaving prison found sustainable employment through Clean Sheet. Despite living in a tent, he sought work with the charity’s help. Clean Sheet arranged an interview with a national employer, who hired him despite his circumstances.
This job enabled him to secure housing and rebuild his life after 15 years of instability. His story exemplifies Clean Sheet’s transformative impact in supporting ex-offenders to reintegrate into society through meaningful employment opportunities.
Read more about the story here.
Managing Staff Concerns About Employing Ex-Offenders
Clear communication is key to addressing staff concerns about hiring ex-offenders. Employers should openly discuss the decision to hire ex-offenders, highlighting the benefits and safety measures in place. Educational initiatives and success stories can help shift perceptions. Additionally, implementing support systems such as mentoring and regular feedback loops can ensure smooth integration.
It’s important to have clear policies in place when it comes to hiring and behaviour expectations. On top of that, creating a positive work culture and addressing any concerns quickly will help keep things running smoothly. This will help staff feel more comfortable and create an environment where everyone feels respected and included.
Learn more about the different ways you can manage staff concerns about ex-offender employment in our dedicated blog.
Ex-Offender Employment: Where to Begin
Are you interested in ex-offender employment? Our experts at Refreshing a Career can give you advice on getting started.
Here are just some of the services we offer:
- Advice and support: We want to break the stigma many ex-prisoners face and highlight the amazing benefits of employing ex-offenders. Our website is packed with resources for employers, including guides on training and building an inclusive work environment. Find the latest industry insights on our blog.
- Attract ex-offenders: Get in touch to advertise your roles on our dedicated ex-offenders job board.
- Find diverse talent: Our job advert inclusivity screening tests your ad against our “Inclusive Language Checklist” to remove potentially discriminatory language
- Advertise your business: Our talented team of writers works with you to create a company profile that documents your efforts as a leading inclusive employer.
- Support ex-prisoners looking for work: If you are a job seeker, you’ll find a range of support and resources for ex-offenders to help you with your job hunt. We cover everything from job application tips to how to write a CV as an ex-offender.
Give us a call on 03458724501 or drop us an email at info@refreshingacareer.com to learn more about our bespoke packages.
