Transport for Wales Pathways Programme ‘Building Futures – On the Right Track', is a rehabilitation programme which aims to provide support for both men and women who are leaving the criminal justice system and working with them towards gaining full-time employment.
The successful programme got underway in September 2021 as part of the pilot scheme which saw nine men take part from His Majesty's Prison Prescoed. The project saw those taking part provided with opportunities to grow their skills, working on vital infrastructure projects whilst serving their sentence.
Because of the programme's success as a pilot, the number of men taken on increased to 11, of which Transport for Wales has seen 8 remain outside of the justice system. Six men who completed their sentences were given an offer of full-time employment by Transport for Wales and partners, two of which have now secured permanent roles in other areas.
The ‘Craidd Alliance; which is responsible for the Core Valley Lines Transformation Project, are working with His Majesties Prison and Probation Service using the Pathways Programme in order to support rehabilitation programmes whilst delivering the vast project. The Craidd Alliance is made up of:
- Transport for Wales
- Amey Infrastructure Wales
- Alun Griffiths Contractors
- Balfour Beatty Rail
- Siemens Mobility
The success of the Pathways Programme's pilot scheme has led Transport for Wales to develop its Pathways in order to create a women's Pathway Programme which supports women serving custodial and non-custodial sentences. The women's programme uses a gender-informed approach but works towards the same objectives by reducing re-offending alongside providing a change in outlook for those taking part. Currently, Transport for Wales has worked with two female prison leavers who have gained permanent positions with the not-for-profit company.
The Pathways Programme is also currently being expanded to support more under-represented groups offered pathways to employment.
Karl Gilmore, TfW Rail Infrastructure Director, said:
“At TfW, we are closely aligned with the Well-being of Future Generations Act (2015) and are fully committed to equality and diversity. Building the Pathway Programme was about creating a lasting legacy that helps to reduce re-offending in Wales and to assist communities to prosper. It's great to see the success this first cohort has had, with six men transitioned into full-time employment with us. I'm hopeful that we can take learnings from the first cohort and apply to futures one, offering other offenders a brighter and more successful future.”
Ellen Somers, Pathways Employability Manager, said:
“At TfW, across the Craidd and supply chain, we are committed to providing a supportive, transparent and safe working environment for all those on the programme. It's wonderful to see the visible success stories from our initial pilot and watch the programme continue to grow. On a more personal note, it's incredible to see individuals quite literally turn their lives around, with their confidence and skills growing day on day.”
Does that include those who have committed crimes so many times and to work on the railways after they have served their sentences. Not sure about that.