Individual gains funding to undertake training qualification thanks to Community Benefits programme on new housing development
The 4 one-bedroom apartments, 8 two- and three-bedroom houses and a two-bedroom bungalow are being built in Llangan using the Beattie Passive Build System, which is also providing invaluable skills and training to those in South Wales.
The original proposals for these energy efficient homes included a prisoner rehabilitation scheme run out of HMP Parc by HM Prison and Probation Service alongside contractors Canna Developments Ltd.
Due to the Covid pandemic, the day release element of the scheme was withdrawn as HMP Parc remains on lockdown. However, four prisoners were employed from the beginning of the project where they manufactured Beattie Passive modules within the prison and are currently completing their accredited qualifications.
Despite the withdrawal of the day release element with HMP Parc, Canna Developments Ltd resurrected the original scheme at the end of November 2020 with HMP Prescoed as it is an open prison which continues to facilitate day release employment opportunities. Seven prisoners are now employed by Canna Developments to gain valuable construction site experience before their release.
Rhodri Crandon, Managing Director of Canna Developments Ltd, said: “Those from HMP Prescoed are Category D and the work experience they gain whilst still in prison is invaluable in preparing them for the job market on their release. They will gain valuable work experience on site and develop new skill sets under the supervision of our qualified tradesmen.
Based on the above, as we pay them all minimum wage and provided, they continue working well on site, they will be released with valuable work experience, a company reference and funds to help them secure accommodation and future work.”
Through Newydd’s Community Benefits programme, one of the employed prisoners has received funding to undertake a SMSTS course (Site Manager Safety Training Scheme) in preparation for the job market when released from prison.
Shannon Maidment, Community Regeneration Coordinator at Newydd said, “Newydd’s Community Regeneration Team works to support the corporate vision of creating sustainable communities. We aim to support projects, activities, and individuals to feel included and have an equal chance, whatever their background.
Supporting this individual in creating re-training and other work opportunities supports Covid-19 recovery which is critical upon release from prison. With the additional support from the contractor in terms of funding accommodation and future work, backing this training opportunity will support the individual’s aspirations when returning to society, in becoming a Site Manager.”
These brand-new homes in Llangan will be offered for affordable rent by Newydd using Homes4U, the housing register for the county managed by the Vale of Glamorgan Council. It is hoped the development will be complete in summer 2021.
Header image: Shannon Maidment from Newydd Housing Association, Rhodri Crandon from Canna Developments Ltd and Andrew Redman from Newydd Housing Association.