Our impact
When someone moves into stable work, the benefits ripple outward — to families, employers, communities and the public finances. Here’s how we think about, and measure, the difference we make.
At a glance
A snapshot of the difference meaningful work makes — from first placement to a sustained career.
How one ROTL placement compounds into social and economic return
Sources: Kantar Public (now Verian) for the Ministry of Justice, 2022; Ministry of Justice.
Who benefits
Income, current work experience, references and routine — plus the dignity and confidence that come from being trusted to do a real job. The firm foundation for a different future.
Filled vacancies, motivated and loyal team members, and authentic social value that strengthens ESG and procurement positions.
Lower reoffending means safer neighbourhoods, stronger families and people contributing as taxpayers and neighbours rather than returning to custody.
Each person who stays in work and out of custody represents significant savings to the justice system and wider public services.
The personal difference
The numbers tell one side of the story. The other is deeply personal. For someone leaving prison, a secure job is rarely just a wage — it’s the turning point a whole life can pivot on.
Work replaces the label of ‘ex-offender’ with ones to be proud of — colleague, earner, professional. Being trusted to do a real job rebuilds self-respect, and people begin to see themselves as who they are becoming, not what they once did.
A regular wage means a home, bills paid and choices made independently — without falling back on old networks or old pressures. Financial security removes many of the triggers that pull people back into offending.
Earning honestly changes how someone shows up for the people they love. Parents can provide for their children again, rebuild trust and become the role model they want to be — often breaking a cycle that spans generations.
The rhythm of a working week — early starts, teamwork, shared goals — brings structure and purpose back to every day. And with a steady job comes a future worth planning for, and with that, real and lasting hope.
For funders & partners
We’re committed to transparent, evidence-based reporting. Support us and you’ll see exactly where it goes and what it achieves.
We work with prisons, resettlement teams, charities, commissioners and social investors. If your goals align with reducing reoffending through employment, let’s talk.
“Stable employment is one of the strongest protective factors against reoffending. Helping people into work before release means they walk out with a job, not just a hope of one.” Lee Maltby — Founder, Firm Foundation Recruitment
Every employer who hires and every partner who backs us means more people supported into lasting work.