Opening Doors to Construction Careers at HMP Styal
Jane* is serving a six-and-a-half-year sentence at HMP Styal and wanted to explore new employment opportunities ahead of her release. Although she had never previously considered a career in construction, she was keen to try something new and applied for a Procure Plus Introduction to Construction course delivered in partnership with HMP Styal and funded by the City & Guilds Foundation.
Jane received positive feedback throughout the course and completed it successfully. Following this, Procure Plus arranged a Meet the Employer event where she impressed several employers and was offered a placement with one of them.
After moving into open conditions, Jane started work as a Trainee Fitter on Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) in January 2026. Since starting her placement, she has received consistently positive feedback from her employer, who has expressed a high level of satisfaction with both her performance and contribution to the workplace. She has demonstrated a strong work ethic, integrated exceptionally well within the team, and adapted positively to the expectations of community-based employment. Her commitment and professionalism have impressed her employer to the extent that they have offered her continued employment upon release, subject to suitability. The employer shared:
“Jane has been fantastic, and we hope she stays with us long term. We have provided further training, which I believe she is excelling at.”
In addition to her employment-related ROTL, Jane has successfully completed numerous ROTL releases to her proposed release address. These opportunities have enabled her to gradually reintegrate into family life and strengthen her support network in preparation for release. In particular, she has worked hard to rebuild and maintain meaningful relationships with her two teenage children. This has had a significantly positive impact on family cohesion, strengthening emotional bonds and supporting the wellbeing of both Jane and her children.
Wider Impact
Jane has also demonstrated forward planning and financial responsibility by saving the wages earned through her ROTL employment. This has helped her build financial stability and establish a positive foundation for her return to the community. Her ability to secure employment, maintain regular income, and save towards her future reflects her commitment to leading a stable and law-abiding lifestyle upon release. HMP Styal shared:
“Thanks to the opportunities brought to Jane through the Procure Plus and City & Guilds foundation construction course she has been able to start a new career and rebuild her life and knows that she has employment when she is released which is a key factor in ensuring she doesn’t reoffend.”
*name changed for anonymity