PeoplePlus has highlighted the role of employer engagement in improving employment opportunities for prison leavers following a Justice Recruitment Advocacy Group (JRAG) event at HMP Sudbury in Derbyshire on 1 October 2026.
The event brought together employers, criminal justice partners and community organisations to examine the skills being developed by prisoners and the opportunities available to support their transition into employment. Attendees toured the prison’s education and industries workshops, heard from the Governor about employer requirements and strategic priorities, and listened to an account of Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL).
The initiative aims to address barriers that can prevent employers from recruiting people leaving prison, particularly concerns arising from limited direct experience of prison-based training and employment programmes. By giving employers the opportunity to see the work taking place inside HMP Sudbury, the event sought to provide a clearer understanding of candidates’ skills, motivation and readiness for employment.
A key figure shared during the visit was that 72% of people leaving HMP Sudbury remain in employment six months after release, compared with a national average of approximately 25%. The figures were presented as evidence of the potential benefits of the prison’s approach to education, training and employment preparation.
Hercules, which trains around 1,500 people annually through its academy and has 23,000 candidates registered on its recruitment app, outlined the potential advantages for employers. These include the absence of recruitment agency finder fees for ROTL placements, motivated candidates and strong retention. Amey also discussed its experience of employing serving prisoners, reinforcing the role that structured support can play in developing employment opportunities.
ROTL provides a route for eligible prisoners to undertake work placements or employment outside prison before release, subject to the relevant arrangements and controls. For employers, this can offer an opportunity to assess candidates in a working environment while providing individuals with experience that can support their transition into the labour market.
Hercules plc (LON:HERC) is a collaborative, innovative company delivering services of the highest standards within the Civil Engineering sector of the construction industry. Hercules Academy provides a comprehensive range of courses designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required for a long and successful career in the construction industry.
