Hawke’s Bay employers encouraged to employ offenders
Businesses from Hawke’s Bay were today urged to consider offenders as employees at a breakfast function hosted by the
Corrections Department (Wednesday 13 September).
The event followed similar breakfasts in Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch aimed at getting employers to hire people
with previous criminal convictions. The three previous breakfasts have generated jobs, vacancies and a high level of
interest from genuine employers.
Corrections already employs eight offender recruitment consultations who match vacancies to suitably-trained and
motivated candidates. In 10 months they have placed 583 people into work.
“Since the breakfast series started, vacancies have been listed with Corrections and more employers are taking notice of
what Corrections is doing to get people ready for the workforce,” says Stephen Cunningham, Corrections Director Offender
Employment and Reintegration.
“To date, 140 memoranda of understanding have been signed by Corrections and employers nationally, that will offer 1,292
job opportunities. That includes 23 agreements with Hawke’s Bay employers offering 113 vacancies. Nationally, the
placements cover a vast range of industries including construction, horticulture, hospitality, agriculture and
manufacturing to name a few.
“It’s encouraging to see commitment from employers. Having a job reduces reoffending and helps offenders lead more
crime-free life. Giving someone a second chance is not only good for them, it’s good for the employer and good for the
community.”
Steady employment leads to less re-offending, which in turns results in few victims of crime. Corrections works to
upskill offenders and help them gain qualifications.
More than 100 employers and stakeholders attended the Napier event, where they heard from two employers and two former
prisoners who are currently employed.
Employers heard that offenders may be eligible for a Starter Pack, which contains a contribution of up to $1,500 to help
reduce or remove barriers to offenders accepting a job. This can be used to purchase tools, clothing, training or a bike
to get to work.
Corrections has also renewed its Employment Support Services (ESS) contract, which helps offenders find employment
following release from prison.
More than 500 former prisoners have already found work through the initiative, and others are being supported to help
maintain their jobs. The service will now expand to include all regions.
ESS offers a full package of support to prisoners and community offenders, including pre-employment preparation, help to
find and secure a job and then up to six months in-work support. In the last financial year 232 offenders were placed in
employment.
A partial package is available for offenders and who already have a job but who may benefit from having six months
support to help them maintain that job. This enables the employers to have a more stable workforce.
ENDS