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Ex-Offenders

Justina Nothard
May 27
2 min read

Expanding Homewood Training's Specialist Programs: Understanding Barriers and Solutions

Homewood Training's commitment to delivering real employment outcomes requires a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by each of our priority groups. We work with SMEs to ensure that we meet people where they are to ensure successful and lasting outcomes. Only by understanding the barriers for each specialist group can we create and implement effective solutions for them within the UK employment landscape.

Understanding Barriers and Support Strategies

With only 12.7% of former prisoners finding employment within six weeks of release, ex-offenders face substantial barriers to employment that require targeted support strategies.

Addressing Stigma and Discrimination

Recognise that 30% of employers still automatically exclude candidates with unspent convictions.
Educate employer partners on the changing landscape, highlighting that 45% of employers are now open to recruiting former offenders (up from 25% in 2010).
Support the implementation of "Ban the Box" principles within partner organisations.
Provide disclosure coaching to help candidates address conviction history appropriately.

Industry-Specific Pathways

Identify sectors within Homewood's specialities (cleaning, hospitality, facilities, rail, construction, security) that are more accessible to people with different conviction types.
Build relationships with employers who have successful track records employing ex-offenders.
Develop training that addresses specific industry compliance requirements.

Employment Gap Strategies

Create work portfolio opportunities during training to demonstrate current capabilities.
Develop reference alternatives through training performance assessments.
Prepare candidates to confidently discuss skills developed during incarceration.

Specialised Employer Partnerships

Cultivate relationships with employers committed to second-chance hiring.
Provide post-placement support to both employers and employees to ensure successful integration.
Highlight the business benefits of hiring from this diverse talent pool, including improved retention rates.

Legal Rights and Disclosure Support

Educate participants about their rights regarding spent convictions.
Provide guidance on disclosure obligations in different industries.
Partner with legal support organisations for specialised advice when needed.

Homewood Training can truly deliver on its commitment to transform employment training into real, sustainable employment outcomes. The specialised approach for each group ensures that Homewood Training's commitment to delivering people who are "ready to work" is achieved through addressing the unique challenges each participant faces, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.