Cornish charity helps ex-inmates find work with our support

Ex-prisoners and others involved in the criminal justice system in Cornwall are on their way to finding work and better futures after a successful new project.

Redruth-based Konnect Communities has been working with 11 people from Truro, Camborne, St Austell and mid-Cornwall to help them get paid jobs.

The two-month project was possible after the not-for-profit social enterprise received a grant from our Community Matters Fund supporting skills and jobs.

Konnect Communities organised workshops, supported by volunteers with criminal justice system experience, to help others who have experienced the criminal justice system or are at risk of offending.

Sessions improved CVs, research and presentation skills, as well as interview technique, with a local employer giving insights into what recruiters look for.

A digital-focused session helped them job search online, write emails and boost their ability to complete web-based applications.

All 11 participants were also supported to write disclosure letters about their criminal records for potential employers.

Sue, who took part in the programme, said: “Konnect Communities and the volunteers have helped me become so much more confident, somewhere I was lost previously. They’re so good at the individual unique approach to supporting and teaching others. I truly can’t thank them enough.”

People with offending histories often face persistent barriers to employment, such as a lack of understanding about employer expectations and the challenge of convincing employers to take a chance on them, said Tracy Waters of Konnect Communities.

“These obstacles can leave individuals feeling excluded and hopeless,” said Tracy. “But through targeted one-to-one and group support, we help people develop essential skills and present themselves positively to employers. This not only opens the door to meaningful work and long-term stability, it plays a vital role in reducing the risk of re-offending.

“Two clients have already secured employment and one has enrolled in further education. Four others attended interviews and performed better because of the skills and support they received.

“We’re grateful for National Grid’s grant which enabled us to offer clients new opportunities beyond our core services. Crucially, it also allows us to build meaningful partnerships with local employers, creating real-world connections that help bridge the gap between support and sustainable employment."

Our Social Impact Business Partner Ellie Patey said: “It’s terrific to see how this project has improved confidence, given people a new sense of purpose and reduced social isolation.”

The Community Matters Fund has awarded £11.8m to more than 2,100 grassroots organisations since it started in 2021.