IWD2025: Help women to overcome barriers to employment
Is your employer helping to level the playing field for people with convictions? We need your support
In the six months after release from prison, women are half as likely to be in employment than men. The reasons for this are complicated - women have a lot on their plates like getting custody of their children back, finding somewhere safe to live, or getting support around mental health or an abusive relationship. And then there's employer prejudice. Our research shows that too many employers let fears about reoffending and risk cloud their judgement, when the reality is that people with convictions make extraordinary employees.
When you start a new job you feel like you have to justify everything. When employers give you a chance, you really want to prove yourself.
Kelly Woman with experience of the criminal justice system
How can you help?
We work all year round to demonstrate to employers the benefits of hiring people with convictions. Research shows women with convictions are loyal and hardworking – they just need a confidence boost and a foot in the door.
If you're able to advocate for us at your place of work, please fill in the form below.
Take action now
Just enter your details and we'll send you a template email to pass on to your HR, EDI or leadership colleagues asking them to consider a partnership with Working Chance to embrace more inclusive hiring.
Do even more to support women this International Women's Day
By supporting our work, you'll have a direct role in creating employment opportunities for women who've been through the justice system. Could you help us give women and their children a brighter future?