Post by PeoplePlus Scotland

Today over 70 employers, partners and stakeholders came together at HMP Castle Huntly for a powerful Community Wealth Advocacy Group (CWAG) event focused on one thing: creating real pathways from custody into employment. With representatives from Scottish Government, Scottish Prison Service and employers from a range of sectors, the energy in the room was clear from the start - a shared sense that change isn’t just needed, it’s already in motion. We heard a powerful call to action from Governor Tommy Watt, reminding us that “It’s about unlocking potential” and that employers have a vital role to play in giving people a chance. Through open, honest discussion, we explored: • What’s working • What’s not • Where the system still creates barriers • What needs to change The outcome? A collective understanding of where we can make immediate progress, from better supporting neurodiverse individuals to improving awareness for employers on the support available to them. Jade Devaney and Tracey Fyfe shared insights into the support they're delivering within HMP Addiewell, highlighting the depth of work already taking place including intensive support for individuals on release, life skills development and ongoing employer engagement to support successful reintegration. We heard first-hand from a prisoner at Castle Huntly, sharing the reality of the barriers he faces and a simple but powerful ask: to be seen as an individual, not defined by his past. From the work happening inside prisons, to the role of the Justice Recruitment Advocacy Group (JRAG), to the commitment of employers in the room. The day closed with a clear message: if we want to move from intention to action, we need more employers to step forward and be part of the solution including being part of initiatives like the Social Recruitment Covenant. Because when we get this right, we don’t just change individual lives - we strengthen our workforce, our communities and our economy. 👉 Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/eTa3GrRY