Maximus UK is delivering Ministry of Justice contracts to support National Probation Service users in the West Midlands, the North West and Wales.
Since June 2021, we have supported hundreds of ex-offenders into education and employment, with help from specialist local partners.
We have helped participants start work, remaining in employment and start businesses — improving both their career prospects and personal lives.
In addition, we’ve worked with employers to raise awareness of the benefits of inclusive recruitment practices, and to source job opportunities in a range of sectors.
Neal’s story
Following a conviction, Neal separated from his long-term partner and lost his job. He also abandoned an online business venture he had previously set up, selling collectable models.
He had become dispirited after being unable to find full-time work.
During a meeting with his Probation Officer, he was offered a referral to Maximus ETE. His ETE advisor quickly won Neal’s confidence and identified his enthusiasm for his earlier business.
Neal was encouraged to resume the business, and his advisor recommended low-cost promotional tools to advertise his stock.
His venture quickly took off and he has already recovered his initial investment. He is now working with third parties to advertise, and is seeing a steady increase in sales.
He also has interest from industry wholesalers, keen to display their products on his website.
Neal is now passionate about his business venture and has a positive outlook. He said:
“The service and support I received could not have been better – Maximus helped me regain my self-respect and hopes for the future.”
Ray’s story
Ray, 55, from Liverpool, found his work options limited due to his conviction. He was working as a warehouse assistant on a part-time, zero-hours basis.
In August 2021, he was encouraged to obtain a Forklift Truck Driver’s license, to make his position more secure — but faced the obstacle of the cost of training.
In September, Ray was referred to the ETE programme. With support from his advisor, he investigated alternative employment. He also looked at the possibility of upskilling to remain with his current employer.
His advisor then identified a training provider offering funded warehousing and logistics qualifications.
In November, Ray completed the training and gained the required qualifications. This led to a permanent contract with his employer and an hourly pay increase.
Ray said: “After so many doors were shut in assisting me, I had given up hope that I would get anywhere. Maximus have helped me achieve the security I was looking for, and I can’t thank them enough.”
Dr Paul Williams, Division President of Maximus UK, said:
“Through ETE we continue to support people to move forward with their lives and access the training and skills they need, delivering a positive impact for individuals, their families and local communities.”
