Lynne Neagle MS, Cabinet Secretary for Education
The Welsh Government is committed to developing a culture of rehabilitation within the criminal justice system.People in the Justice System are often some of the most disadvantaged in society and I want to ensure that our learning and skills provision in prisons is inclusive and supportive allowing those in the secure estate in Wales to build the confidence they need to find and retain employment or continue with their learning on release.
I am, therefore, pleased to announce the publication of the Better Learning, Better Chances: prison learning and skills provision in Wales policy which enables us to set out, for the first time, our vision for a safe and inclusive learning environment in the Welsh prison estate. By investing in learning and skills provision in prisons we can increase an individual’s opportunities of finding sustainable employment upon release. The publication of this policy is the last outstanding recommendation from the Reforming Outcomes A review of Offender Education in Wales, an independent insight into the delivery of education and employability support in prisons and for prisoners on release in the community across Wales, meaning that all recommendations are now complete.
The Welsh Government has worked closely with partners including His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) Wales, prison learners and prison leavers, education providers and third sector organisations to co-create this prison learning and skills policy. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure that the curriculum and vocational courses on offer in prisons reflect the needs of the labour market in Wales and provides the skills employers require, improving the employability opportunities of individuals being released.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.