Apprenticeships for Ex-Offenders Apprenticeship Staff Support Programme This was produced as part of the Apprenticeship Staff Support Programme, which was commissioned and funded by The Education and Training Foundation

Why not consider hiring an ex-offender?

By ignoring an ex-offender’s application, an employer may be missing the best candidate for the vacancy.

A Chance Many young men in prison are just asking for a chance to prove themselves.

Positive attitude Technical skills Prison education Honesty (yes!) Prison discipline / routine GOOD POINTS

Criminal record Perception / Image Trust from others Lack of work experience Lack of education BAD POINTS

Give them an interview Do not assume what the applicant will be. Meet them. Have a chat with them. Ask straight-forward questions – don’t ‘beat about the bush’. Encourage them to speak openly.

Part of a Team It can be very important for an apprentice who has come from prison to adapt to a working environment. Many have never held down a job before. It is important to involve them in meetings, team decisions and social events. It will help them develop their confidence and communication skills.

Provide a mentor By allocating a mentor to an apprentice, this gives the apprentice a key person to go to for help and support. If an employer already employs ex-offenders, they may welcome the chance to mentor a young apprentice.

Opportunity No ex-offender expects special treatment, they just want the chance to prove themselves.

Supporting Progress Think about the long-term goals for the apprentices and remember that long-term outcomes are just as important for ex-offenders.

Be Proud - Demonstrate achievements of ex-offenders to others. This can break down barriers and common misconceptions.

This was produced as part of the Apprenticeship Staff Support Programme, which was commissioned and funded by The Education and Training Foundation