Merseyside Organisation Works To Enable Prisoners To Learn New Skills
“
A Liverpool initiative has met targets to assist offenders back into society with workplace training.
Bridge the Gap, a Merseyside based organisation, has enabled individuals to gather new skills and achieve self-determination to re-enter the workforce. The project started with an open doors philosophy where Bridge the Gap met with offenders and helped them progress through to further education.
The individuals play a major role in determining what method of study and occupation they pursue. Basic numeracy and literacy coursework is also available. Project manager Val Tasker said many individuals have chosen to go into trades and community based businesses such as hairdressing, gardening, window cleaning and construction work. “The feedback we”ve had from the offenders has been wonderful,” she said.
Liverpool’s Walton Prison also runs training programs for prisoners including financial awareness, housing and resettlement advice. The programs are aimed at preparing individuals to renter society and support them against re-offending.
Katherine Hayes
“
Responses