Construction firm Kier has announced is one of the first employers in England to offer apprenticeship opportunities to prisoners, following a crucial law change, which means prisoners can now earn while they learn.

Announced earlier this year, the law has changed this month (October) and it means that prisoners at open prisons will be able to take advantage of apprenticeships, giving them access to high-quality apprenticeships with direct routes into jobs with leading employers.

Kier will be taking on the first ROTL (Release on Temporary Licence) apprentice, into its Highways business. The scheme is designed to support prisoners to gain the skills needed to secure employment after they are released, assisting their rehabilitation, and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

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Helen Redfern, chief people officer at Kier, said: "At Kier, we're committed to having a more diverse workforce, with colleagues who have skills from a range of backgrounds; reflecting the wider community. This pioneering scheme allows us to diversify our workforce further, whilst benefitting prisoners who are nearing the end of their sentence, as well as reducing the likelihood of reoffending, benefitting communities across the country.

"Being one of the first employers to take part in the scheme builds on the work we have already done through Making Ground, our prison engagement and employment programme, which is designed to support serving prisoners and prison leavers into sustainable employment in the construction industry."

Kier will be working in partnership with Inside Connections, a Community Interest Company, to provide, support and mentoring to their apprentices.