Many ex-offenders do a training course or some volunteering to learn new skills and do something positive and constructive. If you've got a recent work or learning experience to talk about at interviews it can help convince employers you've put your offences behind you. You'll also meet people, which can increase your chances of being offered a job.
What if I’m in prison?
Even if you're still in prison, ask about courses and training. Make a start and don't leave it until you're released. Some prisoners can go to college, do training or study on day release. There should also be job clubs and centres with resources and staff to advise you. If you've got access to the internet you can use that to look for work.
How can I find out about courses?
You can find out about courses and how to fund them from your jobcentre, careers adviser or by calling the Careers Advice Service on 0800 100 900. If you’re not sure which course would be the best one for you, ask to speak to a careers adviser - they can help you to decide.
Here are some things to think about when choosing a course:
- If you apply through UCAS for university courses in areas like social work, you’ll have to agree to a check from the Criminal Records Bureau. Check with the universities and colleges you have chosen for their requirements and advice on how to fulfil them. For courses that don't include work with children or vulnerable adults you only need to declare relevant convictions. You can get more advice on declaring your criminal convictions on the UCAS website or by calling them on 0871 468 0 468.
- You may also be asked to declare spent and unspent convictions when applying for courses outside of the UCAS system, such as postgraduate teaching courses.
- Some colleges might be unwilling to take you if you‘ve just left prison - ask a probation officer to support you if you’re refused a place.
If you’re not sure which course to do, you could visit our section on choosing a course.
Once you’ve decided which course to do, you can search our Learning Directory to find out who’s running it in your area.
Can I get any training?
You might be able to join New Deal straight away after you leave prison, instead of having to wait for a qualifying period. Different New Deal schemes are available for people aged 18-24, over 25 years old and over 50 years old. Most New Deal schemes offer support like:
- education and training, sometimes with cash incentives
- subsidised jobs
- help with setting up your own business
- voluntary or environmental work.
To find out more about New Deal, ask at your local Jobcentre or visit the New Deal website.
You could also ask about Apprenticeships, where you learn on the job. As an apprentice you’ll be employed and receive a wage, you’ll work towards work-related qualifications, and you might be kept on by the employer at the end. There are no age limits to apprenticeships.
You usually get help with reading, writing or number work on these training programmes. If your first language isn't English you could ask about ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses.
What about volunteering?
Through volunteering you can learn new skills and get a recent reference after your conviction. It will also get you out and about, maybe amongst people who can offer you a job. SIx out of ten jobs aren't advertised, so word of mouth is a good way to find a job. You can also make a good impression on potential employers first, which can encourage them to look beyond your convictions and see you as you are now.
If you’re claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance, you can work as many hours as you want unpaid, so long as you can attend a job interview or start a job within 48 hours.
You can get more help and advice on our volunteering pages.
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