David Smith, Oldham resident
This was the question put to me when I worked as an Employment Officer for the Apex Charitable Trust in Oldham, back in 2006. And not for the first time.
Working for the organisation, I came into contact with many ex-offenders in our community, helping them back into work.
As a fellow Oldhamer, I know that the people of Oldham are very community-spirited and are willing to give someone a second chance if they know they are trying hard to keep on the straight and narrow.
On this particular occasion, John, who lived in Werneth with his partner and child, had a conviction for GBH. And when he told potential employers about it, they slammed the door in his face. What Martin needed was a professional disclosure with his job applications.
With help with his disclosure and advocacy, Martin was able to secure permanent employment after his fourth attempt. One of many ex-offenders who’s been given a helping hand back into employment.
In my opinion, if an ex-offender can gain sustainable employment, then the odds are that he or she will never offend again. This is not just beneficial to our own local communities, but to communities throughout the UK.
So my question to local employers is – Would you employ an ex-offender and give them a second chance?
David Smith, Oldham resident
David is a local resident who specialises in helping ex-offenders into sustainable employment.
Have your say
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Darren Cassey, Outside Oldham
It is great to see people giving ex-offenders a chance, if they are accepted back into their community they may feel a sense of place that will mean they are less likely to feel the need to offend again.
William, Royton South
I have a conviction for petty theft. I was fortunate enough to get a job after telling the employer about it. I have never comitted any offence since i got the job. It is so easy to pick up a conviction, but very difficult to get out of the rut.
Justin, Outside Oldham
I'm from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA and I've been searching for a job for many many months. I have a criminal record that is well over 2 years old, and I'd had a job for a year until I suddenly lost it. I feel like there is no light out there for me. There are so few jobs available, and so many people looking for jobs, that I feel I would be better turning to selling drugs or theft to make a living (my charges are simple assault), but I have no desire to become a criminal! I cna't even afford to live anymore because I have no income, but going downhill to becomming homeless is not a step in the right direction. What can I do!?