KEEPMOAT has supported a former inmate at a Category C prison in securing employment in bricklaying.
The housebuilder partnered with His Majesty’s Prison Service and the National House Building Council (NHBC) to pilot the Bricklaying Academy, which introduces prisoners to trade with support from experienced tutors and Keepmoat and the NHBC.
The individual, who has been referred to as Prisoner X to protect their identity, had struggled integrating back into society after serving time at HMP Moorland. However, having ‘excelled’ at all modules in the academy, they decided to take on a mentorship role at the academy to support new members in committing to a career in bricklaying.
Paul Cole, head of reducing re-offending at HMP Moorland, said, “Following his engagement at the Bricklaying Academy, it was clear Prisoner X was eager to progress and develop his skills, giving him the opportunity to start his life over now. At HMP Moorland we prioritise the development of prisoners to enable them to gain meaningful employment opportunities upon their release. We’re proud to provide them with relevant skills and training, with an aim to help them find work and live law-abiding lives.”
Debbie Waddington, group HR director added, “It’s fantastic to hear that Prisoner X has gained new skills and in turn new job prospects as a result of his engagement in the Bricklaying Academy. At Keepmoat, we are passionate about equipping the future workforce with the skills, knowledge and experience they need to build high-quality, affordable homes, as well as to help boost Britain’s regional and national productivity. We are also currently exploring opportunities with prisons in the North West region, with a view to upskilling more ex-offenders too.”
Geoff Mann, qualifications manager at NHBC commented, “The training is providing a fantastic pathway into a rewarding and well-paid career in the house building industry. We’re delighted to see Prisoner X and others from a range of backgrounds taking up this opportunity. It’s vital we attract more people into house building to help address skills shortages and the challenge of an ageing workforce. The academy is helping to support the next generation of house builders, equipping them with the skills to build high quality new homes for the future.”
Since its launch, the Bricklaying Academy at HMP Moorland has been equipping prisoners with industry standard skills to improve their employment prospects upon release. To date, 24 prisoners have engaged with the academy, gaining hands-on experience and employability support.
Keepmoat provides materials, equipment, and training expertise from the NHBC. Additionally, the company has facilitated skills bootcamps, including mock interviews and CV preparation sessions, to help inmates transition into the housebuilding and wider construction sector.
The Bricklaying Academy offers a 12-week course, accommodating six participants per group. Prisoners learn skills including the proper use of tools, laying bricks, achieving a site-standard finish, understanding health and safety protocols, the importance of PPE, and teamwork.
