Second Chance Lifeline

19 November 2024

How did you hear about the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations?

A charity called Beating Time supported me through my transition, from prison to full-time employment. Their initiative, Inside Job, helps to find jobs for people while they are serving their sentences.

I was delighted to receive the support from Beating Time. The team reviewed my skills and experience and were keen to find me the best job match for when I was released.

When they told me about the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations, it gave me hope.

What made the Skills Bootcamp opportunity so appealing to you?

I liked the idea that it was an intense training course to learn a whole new skill. But on top of that, the guaranteed interview at the end was a bonus. I felt like I had a second chance to get my life back on track. I had an opportunity to prove myself again - so I went into the journey with a positive mindset.

How did you feel when you were accepted onto the Skills Bootcamp with Flannery?

I was over the moon. Whilst I was serving time, my biggest fear was – how am I going to provide for my family? It kept playing over and over. I had no idea what opportunities (if any) would be waiting for me when I was out.

My experience before was in street works. I was used to working in the outdoors, getting up early, and grafting to put food on the table. So, this opportunity felt like a real second chance lifeline for me.

Was it a positive experience at the Skills Bootcamp?

I had a great time on my training. Everyone on the course was respectful, friendly and willing to support each other.

I was initially worried that the trainers and learners on the course would judge me for my past. But that wasn’t the case at all. Everyone was so supportive and discreet, which gave me so much encouragement – I will always be grateful for that.

What machine category did you gain on the Skills Bootcamp?

In addition to the ‘site-ready’ training that the Skills Bootcamp provides, they also assess you at the end to get a CPCS card. I had been training on a 360, so when I passed the CPCS test at the end, I was overwhelmed.

I also have dyslexia, so I was initially nervous about the learning process. But, like I said before, the trainers are so supportive. The CPCS test at the end is verbal, so there is no requirement to be writing things down. There is also great revision material available to take home.

Once you completed the Skills Bootcamp, did you find a job?

Yes. As soon as I completed the guaranteed interview, Flannery offered me a position. I started building my experience on a few different sites. I’m delighted to now be working with Flannery on the M42 motorway project for Skanska.

What opportunities have you been given since completing the Skills Bootcamp?

Opportunities are endless in construction. Since the Skills Bootcamp, I have continued to develop my skills. I have undergone GPS training and lifting operations training.

Working on a motorway project also means that there are lots of safety devices and technologies on the machine. I have been trained to use height and slew avoidance systems and HFR systems. You are constantly learning in this industry.

Do you feel that you are on the right career path?

I am definitely on the right path now. The Skills Bootcamp has changed my life. I’ve made a few mistakes in my life, which I am not proud of, but the Skills Bootcamp has given me a second chance. I now want to prove to myself and my family that I am worthy of that second chance.

It’s given me a huge confidence boost. It gives me hope when I can see so many people routing for me and pushing me to succeed. I’m thankful for the support from Beating Time, Flannery and Skanska for this opportunity.

What are the benefits of working in plant?

The main thing for me is the people. It is a welcoming industry to be part of.

Obviously, a big factor is the pay. I never thought that I would be on a wage like I am now. I don’t have the same worries that I did before, about how I will provide for my family. This career means that I can now inspire my children. Show them that life takes so many turns.

What would you say to others like you that are looking for their second chance?

Keep hope. That’s the bit that gets you through and my journey is proof that holding that hope really can pay off. There are lots of charities out there that can help you. Talk to them and try your best to take that next step.

Check out some of the amazing charities that are available to assist people in situations similar to Martin:

1. Beating Time works across West-Midlands and the South-East "Our purpose is to help people survive their prison sentence and thrive on release." Email: info@beatingtime.org Call:07956 717 728

1. Apex Charitable Trust works across north-west England and seeks to help people with criminal records obtain appropriate jobs or self-employment by providing them with the skills they need in the labour market and by working with employers to break down the barriers to their employment. 01744 612 898​

1. Breakthrough is a London-based organisation offering prison leavers fully paid apprenticeships for roles in tech or business, offering support and guidance throughout the process. Email hello@wearebreakthrough.orgor call 07598 232646.

1. Nacro has a dedicated Resettlement Plus Helpline which offers information and advice to ex-offenders, serving prisoners, their families and friends and to organisations working with them. 0300 123 1999​

1. Step Together provides tailored one-to-one support to help individuals into volunteering placements that match their needs and interests. The programme helps them develop the personal and practical skills required to build a more positive future. 0117 955 9042

1. St Giles Trust runs a range of services designed to help ex-offenders, including employment support, community-based training, and housing/emergency accommodation. 020 7708 8000

1. Trailblazers is a national charity that reduces reoffending among young people through providing volunteer mentors. Young people are supported to change their attitude, thinking and behaviour through intensive mentoring, advice, advocacy and targeted specialist support. 07807 267280

1. Unlock is an independent charity for people with convictions who are dealing with the effects of having a criminal record. Through a confidential peer-run helpline, they give advice and support across areas such as how to disclose to employers, criminal record checks, getting insurance and travelling abroad. 01634 247350

1. Women in Prison is a women-centred, women-run organisation that provides specialist services to women affected by the criminal justice system both in prison and in the community throughout England. 0800 953 0125 or 020 7359 6674 

1. Working Chance is a charity that helps women offenders make the transition into employment, helping them find paid work and offering voluntary placements.

1. YMCA works in partnership with prisons and probation services to support young offenders with citizenship and training opportunities pre-release. 020 7186 9500