Written Statement by MS, Cabinet Secretary for Education
The Welsh Government is committed to developing a culture of
rehabilitation within the criminal justice system.People in the
Justice System are often some of the most disadvantaged in
society and I want to ensure that our learning and skills
provision in prisons is inclusive and supportive allowing those
in the secure estate in Wales to build the confidence they need
to find and retain employment or continue with their learning on
release.
I am, therefore, pleased to announce the publication
of the Better Learning, Better
Chances: prison learning and skills provision in
Wales policy which enables us to set out, for the first
time, our vision for a safe and inclusive learning environment in
the Welsh prison estate. By investing in learning and skills
provision in prisons we can increase an individual's
opportunities of finding sustainable employment upon release. The
publication of this policy is the last outstanding recommendation
from the Reforming Outcomes A
review of Offender Education in Wales, an independent insight
into the delivery of education and employability support in
prisons and for prisoners on release in the community across
Wales, meaning that all recommendations are now complete.
The Welsh Government has worked closely with partners including
His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) Wales, prison
learners and prison leavers, education providers and third sector
organisations to co-create this prison learning and skills
policy. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure that
the curriculum and vocational courses on offer in prisons reflect
the needs of the labour market in Wales and provides the skills
employers require, improving the employability opportunities of
individuals being released.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep
members informed. Should members wish me to make a further
statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns
I would be happy to do so.
