22 May, 2026

On Monday evening, some of the Good Business team had the pleasure of attending the Old Bailey for the Justice for Prison Leavers event. This was part of the Justice for All series, supported by our friends at Rathbones and hosted by Alderman and Sheriff Robert Hughes-Penney. Framed around the anniversaries of the Magna Carta and UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, the event brought together people with lived experience of prison alongside leaders from business, government and the charity sector to explore rehabilitation, reoffending and second chances.

What became clear through the talks and panel sessions is that a prison sentence may end, but its impact often does not. As Unlock CEO Paula Harriott put it, criminal records can cast a “long shadow”, limiting access to jobs, housing and everyday participation in society. This has a big impact on ex-prisoners, their families and society as a whole and 80% of offenders are reoffenders.

The evening was full of practical examples showing that change is not only possible, but also already happening. Prisons Minister Lord Timpson brought both personal and professional perspective, from growing up in a fostering family supporting children of incarcerated parents, to the success of the Timpson Foundation model, where more than 12% of colleagues have criminal convictions. His reflection struck a balance of progress and possibility, with a clear call for continued action.

One of the most interesting examples came from Paul Cowley, Managing Director at the Second Chance Partnerships who shared insights from Iceland Foods’ Second Chance initiative. The programme combines practical training inside prisons, delivered through fully functioning Iceland shops, with real job opportunities on release. It has supported over 1,000 people into employment to date.

Perhaps most interesting is the unexpected social benefits for prisoners. Individuals working in these in-prison shops earn a small wage, which they can spend on food. As well as learning to manage money, many choose to pool their purchases and cook meals together, rebuilding everyday routines and relationships. By combining early training, real job opportunities and a sense of routine and social interaction, the programme helps people reintegrate into society and reduces the likelihood of reoffending. It is a powerful reminder that successful rehabilitation is as much about connection and stability as it is about employment.

If the event showed us anything, it is that justice for prison leavers and second chances are not just possible, they are something businesses can actively help create. And there are lots of businesses already working towards this. Take COOK’s RAW Talent Programme, or XO Bikes as inspiration!

Bookings are now open for the final event in the series, Financing Justice, taking place on 29th June, so get your tickets now!

By Charlotte Pounder