In today’s Cabinet meeting about getting people into work, the Prime Minister was quick to point out the current low-levels of unemployment, but failed to address the record vacancies and poor levels of getting people into work after prison.
Campbell Robb, Nacro chief executive, said: “Unemployment levels may be down, but the Prime Minister is ignoring the fact that for the first time since records began, job vacancies outnumber unemployed people by around 100,000. Yet despite the apparent dire need to fill vacancies, only 14% of people leaving prison will have a job six months after release. With 45,000 working age people in prison, it’s time to get the Government’s plans for getting people in prison, education, training, and work, truly off the ground to help our economy and society thrive.”
Helping those leaving prison get into work is vital, reoffending costs the UK economy around £18bn a year and this is predicted to rise. Yet, when someone finds work after prison, their chances of reoffending are cut significantly according to Ministry of Justice data. Work also helps them rebuild a life, remain in stable housing and therefore reducing homelessness, for which prison leavers make up around 60% of the homeless population. Work is vital to helping people engage positively in their community, contribute and change their life.
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
