REACH is an employability project financed through the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) and the European Social Fund (ESF). The REACH project targets higher risk and high need offenders who find it harder to access mainstream services. The project includes those who are serving less than 12 months in custody who are often released without support.

The project supports offenders by providing a Case Management approach. REACH case workers work closely with offenders and the Offender Manager to reduce barriers to employment. There is particular focus on engaging groups who face additional barriers to employment including, women, black and ethnic minority (BME) offenders, people with learning difficulties and other health needs, single parents, people over 50 and young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Benefits of REACH

Motivational intervention to build confidence and increase engagement

• Mentoring scheme to help the participant to build on life skills
• Improved access of disadvantaged groups to employment
• Helping men and women access occupations or sectors in which they are under represented
• Individual action plans
• Help with conviction disclosure and CV writing
• Short vocational skills courses and work placements to help demonstrate commitment to potential employers
• End to end for offenders in the community or prison

The project aims to link offenders with suitable mentors who can provide support to help them overcome barriers to employment, training or education.

Volunteering with the REACH Project

We are currently seeking volunteer mentors to work with offenders on the REACH Project. Please click here for more information.