Prison leavers are being given the chance to rebuild their lives in a scheme pioneered by a leading property developer.
National construction and development giants Legacie has received widespread acclaim for its innovative programme aimed at rehabilitating former offenders.
It is giving them hopes of a new future by taking part in a Ministry of Justice-backed work project on its sites.
Legacie, known for its prominent residential and commercial projects Manchester, Liverpool and Luton, has now welcomed over 50 prison leavers onto its flagship “Second Chance Scheme”.
Launched in 2016 in partnership with the probation service and HMP Thorncross, the programme provides training and career development for individuals with criminal records, offering them the chance to gain valuable skills in key construction trades such as joinery, bricklaying, scaffolding, and general construction.
The initiative provides ex-offenders with a stable career path that helps them move forward.
Last week, the leading property company was presented with a major priority industry award for its work
The programme is part of a broader government-backed effort to reduce reoffending and boost employment within the UK. Since being rolled out, the programme has had a profound impact, with the number of ex-offenders finding jobs within six months of release increasing by 116 per cent.
At the same time, the annual £18billion cost of reoffending has been significantly reduced.
Legacie, which is headquartered in Liverpool, has now delivered several successful placements, with many prison leavers finding long-term employment in the construction industry. The company has been widely praised, and has won awards, for its efforts to create opportunities for individuals who have made mistakes in the past but are determined to change their futures.
“We believe in second chances,” said John Morley, CEO of Legacie.
“Rehabilitation is not just about avoiding reoffending, it’s about giving people the tools to rebuild their lives. We are committed to providing opportunities for those who need them most.
“Reaching our 50th prison leaver earlier this year was a proud milestone, and we look forward to expanding this programme further to help even more individuals reintegrate into society.”
The programme has garnered recognition from industry leaders and policymakers, including Conserative peer Lord Stuart Polak, who is also a senior adviser to Legacie, who recently praised the company’s efforts in the House of Lords. The business also recently met with Labour MP and minister Jim McMahon to tell him about their progress.
Lord Polak highlighted the importance of getting ex-prisoners into steady work, explaining that it not only reduces reoffending but also strengthens the economy. “Integrating former prisoners into the workforce helps build a better society and contributes to a healthier economy. Legacie’s dedication to social reform is to be commended.”
Lord Polak added: “Everyone has a past, but it doesn’t define their future. Legacie wants to help people rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society. This is a business that is passionate about offering those who need a second chance the opportunity to work and thrive.”
With a reputation for delivering high-impact developments, Legacie’s prisoner rehabilitation programme has flourished alongside the company’s expanding portfolio. The firm is behind the 656-unit Gateway development on Liverpool’s Leeds Street, which has generated 150 new jobs. The company is also developing the historic Heaps Rice Mill site on the city’s waterfront and Manchester’s impressive Embankment Exchange scheme.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see people turn their lives around through this programme. We’re proud to be part of a growing movement that’s helping ex-offenders reintegrate into society, and we’re thrilled to see so many success stories. This programme is a real testament to the power of second chances,” says Morley.
With plans to expand its work even further, Legacie is committed to breaking down the barriers that often prevent ex-offenders from securing steady employment. By offering these individuals the chance to work in the thriving construction and property development industry, the company is not only helping to reduce reoffending but is also playing a vital role in boosting the UK’s workforce and contributing to long-term economic recovery.
