Four new prison workshops were officially opened yesterday by Justice Secretary Jack Straw as part of the Government's drive to increase prisoner work programmes and partnerships with the private sector.

The workshops at Stocken Prison in the East Midlands will give prisoners the chance to learn job skills and the opportunity to begin a new life away from crime on release from prison.

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Bricklaying, painting and decorating, and learning to refurbish and repair hire equipment for builders' merchant Travis Perkins are among the skills being taught in the workshops as part of a new prison expansion scheme at the prison.

The expansion, which also includes improved kitchens, stores, chapel, visits area, administration, healthcare facilities and accommodation for up to 184 more prisoners will also help meet the needs of an increasing prison population. Stocken have 86.5% of prisoners in full employment or training, and aim to bring this up to 100% by March next year. The prison has capacity to hold 806 prisoners.

(CD/JM)