A construction firm is giving ex-offenders a second chance – by giving them jobs after they are released from prison.
The Second Chance Scheme was launched by property developer Legacie and is aimed at helping inmates rebuild their lives and reintegrate them into the community after serving their sentence.
Fifty prison leavers have joined the programme since it began in 2016 in partnership with the probation service and HMP Thorncross.
It provides training and career development for individuals with criminal records, offering them the chance to gain valuable skills in key construction trades such as joinery, bricklaying, scaffolding, and general construction.
The initiative provides ex-offenders with a stable career path that helps them move forward.
The programme is part of a broader government-backed effort to reduce reoffending and boost employment within the UK.
Since being rolled out, the programme has had a profound impact, with the number of ex-offenders finding jobs within six months of release increasing by 116%.
At the same time, the annual £18 billion cost of reoffending has been significantly reduced.
Liverpool-based Legacie has now delivered several successful placements, with many prison leavers finding long-term employment in the construction industry.
John Morley, CEO of Legacie, said: ‘We believe in second chances. Rehabilitation is not just about avoiding reoffending, it’s about giving people the tools to rebuild their lives. We are committed to providing opportunities for those who need them most.
Reaching our 50th prison leaver earlier this year was a proud milestone, and we look forward to expanding this programme further to help even more individuals reintegrate into society.’
The programme has garnered recognition from industry leaders and policymakers, including Conserative peer Lord Stuart Polak, who is also a senior adviser to Legacie, who recently praised the company’s efforts in the House of Lords. The business also recently met with Labour MP and minister Jim McMahon to tell him about their progress.
Lord Polak highlighted the importance of getting ex-prisoners into steady work, explaining that it not only reduces reoffending but also strengthens the economy. ‘Integrating former prisoners into the workforce helps build a better society and contributes to a healthier economy. Legacie’s dedication to social reform is to be commended.’
Lord Polak added: ‘Everyone has a past, but it doesn’t define their future. Legacie wants to help people rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society. This is a business that is passionate about offering those who need a second chance the opportunity to work and thrive.’
With a reputation for delivering high-impact developments, Legacie’s prisoner rehabilitation programme has flourished alongside the company’s expanding portfolio.
The firm is behind the 656-unit Gateway development on Liverpool’s Leeds Street, which has generated 150 new jobs.
The company is also developing the historic Heaps Rice Mill site on the city’s waterfront and Manchester’s impressive Embankment Exchange scheme.
‘It’s incredibly rewarding to see people turn their lives around through this programme. We’re proud to be part of a growing movement that’s helping ex-offenders reintegrate into society, and we’re thrilled to see so many success stories. This programme is a real testament to the power of second chances,’ said Morley.