An event to explore ways businesses in Cumbria could employ prisoners and ex-offenders from Haverigg has been held.
Organised by Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Category D prison in South Cumbria, the event invited business leaders to visit the prison and talk with its bosses.
Haverigg, near Millom, houses prisoners in open conditions. To qualify for Category D status, prisoners undergo a stringent review process and are required to be engaged in full-time work or training in preparation for release into communities all over the UK.
The chamber said by organising these events with HMP Haverigg, it aimed to address the current labour shortage in Cumbria and give businesses the opportunity to explore alternative options for recruitment.
After a tour, business leaders met with prisoners due for release or eligible for release on temporary licence, which allows them to undertake work placements with local businesses outside the prison, after completing an extensive risk assessment and testing process.
They collected CVs and inquired about skills and experience.
Michael Bauer, of Cumbria Employment Solicitors, was on hand to answer any questions the employers had, regarding HR issues, employment law, interviews and contracts.
Eve Halliday, head of commercial and business growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “The skills shortage in Cumbria poses a real threat to businesses and the local economy, and it’s not going to be resolved any time soon unless we get creative about how we tackle it.
“Our trips Haverigg Prison have been enlightening and educational, without a single attendee who said it was exactly what they thought it would be. Quite the opposite actually!
“It’s reassuring to learn about the stringent checks and processes in place to make sure these prisoners are suitable for a Category D open prison. If there’s even a hint of concern they aren’t ready, they don’t go. It’s really is that simple.
“Getting former prisoners into work is proven to reduce reoffending. Haverigg’s reoffending rate is much lower than the national average at 8%. So giving these prisoners a second chance is so important for protecting the communities they go back into.
“That being said, I do understand and accept that it needs to be dealt with on a case by case basis with potential employers deciding precisely what they and their workforce are comfortable with. There is no right and wrong in that respect, but having the conversation is a starting point.
“Speaking to the prisoners at Haverigg it was clear that so many want to turn their backs on crime and start working to get their lives back on track. How many times have you seen groups of 30-plus candidates waiting to speak to employers, CV in hand, none of whom were forced to attend?
“If hiring ex-offenders is something that you might be willing to try, please attend our next visit to Haverigg Prison. You may find a viable solution to recruitment challenges within your business. The employment team at Haverigg, along with chamber HR advisers, are there to help you every step of the way. If it’s not for you, well at least you know and we can help you look at other options.’’
