NewGround Foundation’s Employment Pathway Project is helping prisoners and prison leavers build sustainable futures through specialist coffee and barista training. Supported by a grant from the Company, the programme equips participants with practical skills, confidence and real employment opportunities, with the wider goal of reducing reoffending through meaningful work. Of the 34 participants enrolled during the year, 33 successfully completed the programme, with several graduates already securing employment in the coffee industry through Release on Temporary Licence placements and post-release roles.
The project has continued to grow following its success at HMP Spring Hill, leading to invitations to deliver training in HMP Leicester and Worcester Probation, as well as plans for a new training café at HMP Grendon. A popular new initiative saw trainees operating a pop-up café serving prison staff, giving participants valuable experience working in a realistic, high-pressure environment.
