We recognise the value of vocational training at Timpson, and know well the significant impact this can have on reducing re-offending. That’s why we have invested in several specialist training academies, all of which are located within prison premises.
Rather than prisoners completing menial tasks whilst in custody, which are unlikely to lead to employment, we provide them with practical training to better prepare them for employment upon release. This in turn, can make a positive impact on our communities by helping to reduce re-offending rates. Our training academies mimic our High Street stores and enable prisoners to be trained in all the services we provide. The only exception to this is key cutting, for obvious reasons!
Once a prisoner has completed a period of training and is released, they are already fully skilled in our services and raring to go. Our training academies allow individuals to feel a valued part of the Timpson or Max Photo team and this can also help restore confidence and self-esteem. On their day of release, we will often meet them at the prison gates and introduce them to their new colleagues and provide them with uniform, lunch and settle them in to their new home.
We believe this approach is extremely effective in ensuring our ex-offender colleagues have a much-needed head start and can help them transition smoothly into the workplace. This proven approach to training and recruitment is now copied by other leading firms. We have an impressive ex-offender retention rate of approximately 75% and that makes everyone in the business who plays a part in ex-offender resettlement extremely proud.
