Based in Middlesbrough, Clean Slate Solutions stands as a beacon of hope for those leaving prison, who previously had nowhere to turn to. Its overarching aim is to empower individuals with past convictions by providing them with the necessary resources, skills, and support to secure meaningful employment.
First conceived as a project in 2018, Clean Slate Solutions (CSS) originally began delivery as a pilot within another charity. During his own lived experience within the justice system, the founder had identified an untapped talent pool of individuals desperate for a second chance at life, but thwarted by the stigma of a past offence. Seeing the potential for transformed lives, he felt there was a way to educate employers to change their perceptions and fill their vacancies with people dedicated to proving themselves. He worked on this vision before release and was supported to realise it in the community.
Its person-centred approach means CSS works both in prison and in the community to assist beneficiaries at different stages of their journey. The team offer triage services with a trauma and strengths-based approach to assess individual needs and develop personalised plans for rehabilitation and employment i.e. mentoring, training, interview preparation etc. This ensures each person receives the support they require to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
CSS also focuses on providing employment support, collaborating with fair-chance employers who are open to hiring individuals with criminal records, challenging stereotypes, and promoting diversity in the workforce. Through education and advocacy, it aims to influence employers' attitudes and practices, creating a more inclusive and supportive job market.
Additionally, CSS provides mentoring for up to twelve months after employment (and for as long as is needed). CSS mentors - many of whom have lived experience of the challenges faced by beneficiaries - provide guidance, encouragement, and a support network for individuals as they transition into the workforce.
It’s made a massive difference since my release. I felt like I’d ruined my life and chances of decent employment but thanks to Clean Slate Solutions, I’ve found a job where I’m treated as an equal.
To date, the team have supported almost 500 people to access training, right to work ID, safe housing, alongside additional support such as transport for interviews and clothing to make the right impression on employers. Out of this group, 320 have gained employment with a reoffending rate of less than 3%. The national reoffending rate is closer to 60% so the aim is for the track record to speak for itself.
With support from the Foundation, CSS has hired a new staff post in Teesside, to build on its growing work in prisons and to enhance its ‘through the gate’ into the community offering. This new role will be instrumental in helping beneficiaries leaving custody with hope and purpose and crucially, to have continued support in the transition phase of their resettlement.
