Ex-offenders programme offers pathway into roofing 

The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity is backing a new programme designed to reintegrate prisoners into the workforce and help bridge the skills gap in construction.

The pilot project at Cardiff Prison embraces the support of the Lighthouse Charity, GLA Group and Central Group to offer specialist skills training, soft skills development, and a pathway into the roofing industry. 

The Lighthouse Charity will be offering a portfolio of self-paced e-learning modules that allow flexible learning and cover a diverse range of wellbeing topics, such as Banter vs Bullying, Resolving Conflict, Managing Stress, and Understanding Anxiety. 

Sarah Bolton, chief operating officer of the Lighthouse Charity, said: "In our pursuit to bridge the skills gap within the industry, we’re supporting a fully inclusive environment and engaging with individuals who may never have considered a career in construction before.

“Through this holistic partnership, we are able to deliver not just the essential vocational skills, we’re also ensuring easy access to vital soft skills training.”

Bolton added that many ex-offenders could face societal prejudice and difficulties finding work. “This programme will enhance their employability and empower individuals entering the sector to embark on a sustainable career, with the skills to overcome the daily challenges of life," she said.

As part of the initiative, the GLA Group will take on a mentoring role, delivering comprehensive training to prisoners with aspirations of joining the construction industry. 

Andy Bird, director of the GLA Group, said: “GLA realise that it’s not just about teaching people new practical skills to help them when they leave prison, it’s having the skills to deal with the challenges we face on a daily basis that many of us take for granted but some cannot.  

“The Lighthouse Charity help to fill that gap with e-learning courses aimed at understanding and easing the stress and anxiety that life and work can sometimes bring up.

“We are delighted to be able to collaborate with them and help reduce re-offending and give people the chance and opportunity to live successful lives.”

Roofing and cladding contractor Central Group will offer individuals who complete the training an opportunity to pursue a career in the construction industry upon their release.

Commenting on the collaboration, Louise Morgan, head of education, skills and work at Cardiff Prison, said: “This is an example of working together at its best.

"By working with partners, we can enhance our curriculum offer to provide the men in our care with the best education, skills and work opportunities to be successful in their goals and ambitions when they leave custody.”