A new training programme is helping to prepare prisoners for careers in the construction industry.
Plias Resettlement is offering industry-approved health and safety training, funded by Ealing Council, for people currently serving a sentence at HMP Wormwood Scrubs.
As part of the programme, Plias provides candidates with help to prepare for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card exam.
Since starting work with Ealing Council in October 2024, more than 80 people have taken the course.
Additional support is provided on release to help facilitate a smooth transition back into the community.
Tom Chandler, director at Plias Resettlement, said: “We visit the prison every month. We target prisoners who are due for release within the next three months, as they need more timely help.
“We explain what we are doing and how it can benefit them. If they are interested in a career in construction, we put them forward for our training programme. We usually have eight to 10 people attending per course.”
After candidates get their CSCS card, Ealing Council’s construction skills advisor helps them to find work on construction sites in the borough.
Reducing re-offending
Chandler said: “Once people get released, we invite them to our fully equipped IT centre which they can come to as many times as they want.
“We want them to successfully pass their CSCS test and move into employment, so they get unlimited practice and revision materials. We know that people who are employed in jobs with prospects are less likely to re-offend.
“While people are preparing for the test, we help them with writing their CV, interview techniques, and how best to disclose a criminal conviction to an employer.”
Creating opportunities for people in prison is helping Ealing Council reach its ambition of supporting 2,000 residents with the toughest barriers to employment.
Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, cabinet member for decent living incomes, said: “Once they have paid their debt to society, it is vital that we offer ex-offenders the help they need to become contributing members of society.
“Our lives don’t always follow a straight line, and everyone should have an equal chance to find a good job.
“That’s why it is important that we, as a council, provide opportunities and funding to help residents overcome obstacles which would otherwise stand in the way of their route to a good, well-paid job.”
