The presentation will explore the critical role of collaboration between employers, corrective services and employment service providers in facilitating the successful reintegration of individuals with a history of incarceration into the workforce. By examining the intersection of these key stakeholders, we aim to shed light on innovative strategies, best practices, and challenges encountered in fostering a cohesive ecosystem to address the crucial role of sustainable employment in reducing recidivism and promoting social inclusion. Recognizing the challenges faced by people with lived experience of incarceration in securing employment, this employer led, collaborative model aims to break down barriers and promote a more inclusive approach.
Employers: To create meaningful opportunities for a person with lived experience of incarceration, employers need to be active participants in the reintegration process. We will hear from Acciona and Ferrovial(AFJV), a joint venture and explore their strategies on creating niche pre employment programs with flexible HR practices.
Corrective Services: The Work Readiness Team play a crucial role in preparing individuals for reintegration. In our case study we will examine the extensive work delivered by the work readiness team during the pre release and employment phases.
Employment Service Providers: Employment service providers act as intermediaries, connecting people with lived experience of incarceration with suitable job opportunities. By understanding the unique needs and challenges of this cohort, providers can offer personalized support.
Conclusion: A collaborative model involving employers, corrective services, and employment service providers presents a promising avenue for enhancing the reintegration of individuals with criminal histories into the workforce. By leveraging the strengths of each stakeholder, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment, contributing to long-term positive outcomes for both individuals and business.
Presenters
Martin Petersons
– Executive Industry and Justice Services Manager, Global Skills
Martin has worked in Australian government funded employment services for 29 years across regional/metro NSW, ACT and Queensland with profit and not for profit organisations, and has spent the last 9 years at Global Skills as the Executive Industry and Justice Services Manager, which includes overseeing their TWES and Specialist Justice Service Contracts.
During this time Martin has seen economic and societal growth across many regions bringing significant financial and social benefits for the community. Unfortunately many areas missed these benefits leading to marginalisation and disadvantage including for people with experience of the Justice System.
This incongruence has driven Martin’s passion for ensuring all people are afforded equal opportunity and access to services, either through employment, access to services, education or attaining secure and liveable housing. Martin’s history in the sector, has afforded him the opportunity to foster a range of stakeholder connections, working with a range of small to large employers as well as industry bodies, statutory authorities and Government.
Over the past 7 years Martin has been actively engaged in working alongside customers who have been connected to Corrective Services both pre and post release. This engagement has led to the development of strong relationships with Correctional Centres, Community Corrections and Corrective Services’ Employment Programs – Works Readiness and Pathways to Employment. It was through this relationship and pro-active employers within the construction industry that lead to the successful collaboration in securing employment for female inmates still in custody.
