Prison education as a route to employment

The Novus Works team recently invited Marston’s  into HMP Hewell to discuss an employment pilot within the local area. This pilot will mean that the learners who go through the Hospitality & Catering course with Novus will secure an interview at their local Marston’s pub or restaurant, for front or back of house roles.

An exciting visit from Marston’s

There were 11 visitors in total, including the head of Marston’s resourcing department, Alice Barriball and everyone was overwhelmed by how different a prison looks and feels on the inside compared to how things are portrayed on TV.

The day started with a tour of the prison kitchens and workshops, meeting and greeting prisoners who were working away to ensure everyone is fed on time. They then met with the learners who are currently doing the Barista training course, they also spoke with a few men who had previously completed the Hospitality course, gaining useful knowledge of the talent that we all see behind the bars! The day was finished off with a buffet made up of Marston’s menu items prepared for by our wonderful Café Connect staff. It was also attended by the Governor Ralph Lubkowski who was delighted to welcome everyone.

The day was a huge success and we’re sure that it won’t be long before we get some success stories from this project. We’d like to say a huge thank you to all of the colleagues and learners at HMP Hewell for suporting the visit and Marston’s for being forward thinking about their recruitment and understanding that everyone deserves another chance.

How does Novus Works support learners and employers?

Novus Works colleagues pre-screen the possible candidates prior to release, assessing their suitability for the roles they wish to apply for. We then support them to ensure they are ‘work ready’ by making sure they have the correct ‘right to work’ documents and ID and bank account and that their probation team are happy with the employment opportunity. It is then over to them to secure employment with Marston’s during their interview, in the same way as all other candidates.

For more information on Novus Works, please visit our Novus works page

What additional support are we able to offer?

We are working closely with the charity Only a Pavement Away, who support anybody going into the Hospitality industry financially. They offer help in many areas, including paying for public transport during the first month of employment, supporting with the first month’s rent or deposit, or paying for clothes for their interview.

If you are interested in speaking to one of the Novus works team, please contact us.