Keepmoat and the HM Prison Service are working together to create a state-of-the-art bricklaying academy, which aims to reduce reoffending crime rates
The aim of the bricklaying academy is to empower prisoners by giving them new skills to secure employment upon their release.
The first-of-its-kind initiative will be based at HMP Moorland near Doncaster. The bricklaying academy will offer detailed training, re-equipment, and skill-building programmes designed for prisoners who are set to be released within the next six to 12 months.
Unemployment is linked to reoffending
A recent study by the Ministry of Justice revealed that former inmates who engage in full-time employment after their release are considerably less likely to commit further offences compared to those who do not. Over 300 prisoners are scheduled to be released in the next six months in Yorkshire alone.
The bricklaying academy hoped to improve prisoners’ skills by providing comprehensive training in multiple aspects of the trade. Prisoners will learn essential techniques such as tool handling, equipment operation, cement mixing, and wall construction.
The bricklaying academy can help combat the construction skills shortage
As well as empowering the prisoners, the academy can also help address the shortage of construction skills. The industry is projected to require nearly 30,000 additional construction workers by 2026 to meet growing demand. This target will be difficult to achieve as the industry experienced a 5% decline in its workforce in 2021.
“Of the hundreds of prisoners due to be released in the coming six months, a good number of them have previous experience working in trades. This presented an opportunity to help develop a programme to support those who wish to create a future career for themselves and, ultimately, have a second chance at life,” said Tim Beale, chief executive at Keepmoat.
“This academy also forms part of our ongoing commitment to providing opportunities to people across the country, including in traditionally ‘left behind’ communities. At Keepmoat, we are passionate about equipping the future workforce with the skills, knowledge and experience they need to build high-quality, affordable homes, as well as to help boost Britain’s regional and national productivity,” he continued.
The bricklaying academy follows a similar initiative from Kier Group. The construction company launched a 12-week construction skills programme for prisoners in July 2022. The programme includes courses on CAT and Genny health and safety, street works, working at height, manual handling, and abrasive wheels training. The course incorporates modules that promote well-being and support for the prisoners.
“At HMP Moorland we prioritise the development of prisoners to enable them to gain meaningful employment opportunities upon their release. We’re proud to provide them with relevant skills and training, with an aim to help them find work and live law-abiding lives,” said Paul Cole, head of reducing reoffending at HM Prisons.
“The training will provide an achievable and realistic pathway into a rewarding and well-paid career in the house building industry, and we are delighted to see these prisoners and others from diverse backgrounds taking up this opportunity,” concluded Geoff Mann, qualifications manager at NHBC.
