2/05/2025
By Rik W, Training & Advocacy Manager at Offploy CIC
Finding employment can be a daunting task for people with criminal convictions but there are many UK employers committed to offering fair chances. These employers understand the value of diverse backgrounds and are dedicated to inclusive hiring practices.
Offploy is a social-enterprise run by ex-offenders. Having supported over 4000 people with convictions and hundreds of employers, we know a thing or two about finding employment for people like us. To support as many people as possible, we want you to know this too.
Here are some key resources to help individuals with convictions find supportive employment opportunities.
Business in the Community’s Ban the Box Initiative
One of the most significant movements promoting fair hiring practices is Business in the Community’s “Ban the Box” initiative. This campaign encourages employers to remove the tick box asking about criminal convictions from job application forms. By doing so, it allows candidates to be considered based on their skills and experience before their criminal record is discussed. Employers who have signed up to Ban the Box are actively committed to inclusive hiring and providing second chances. The list of participating employers is available on the Business in the Community website, making it a valuable resource for job seekers with convictions.
Employers That Have Banned The Box – Business in the Community
Job Boards and Recruitment Agencies
Several job boards and recruitment agencies specialise in connecting people with convictions to potential employers. One such platform is Bridge of Hope Careers, which focuses on inclusive employment opportunities. This job board partners with employers who are open to hiring individuals with criminal records and provides a streamlined application process tailored to their needs. By using these specialised job boards, candidates can find roles that align with their skills and experience while knowing that the employers are supportive of their background.
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Pioneering Employers
Some UK employers have set exemplary standards in hiring individuals with criminal convictions. These companies not only offer jobs but also provide supportive work environments and career development opportunities. Notable examples include:
- Timpsons Group: Known for their strong commitment to employing ex-offenders, Timpsons has a dedicated recruitment programme that recognises the potential in individuals with criminal records. They offer training, support, and a welcoming workplace culture.
- Greggs: This popular bakery chain is part of the Ban the Box initiative and actively seeks to provide employment opportunities to those with convictions. Greggs values inclusivity and supports the rehabilitation of ex-offenders through meaningful work.
- Iceland Foods: Iceland Foods is another retailer that has embraced inclusive hiring practices. By participating in Ban the Box, they ensure that job applicants with convictions are given fair consideration based on their merits.
- Virgin Group: With a focus on diversity and inclusion, Virgin Group supports hiring individuals with criminal records across its various businesses. They understand the importance of second chances and the positive impact it can have on individuals and society.
- Catch22: This social business works to build resilience and aspiration in people and communities. Catch22 provides various services, including employment programmes that help ex-offenders find meaningful work. Their partnerships with employers create pathways for individuals with convictions to reintegrate into the workforce.
Finding UK employers who are open to hiring people with convictions requires leveraging the right resources and targeting companies with inclusive hiring practices. Business in the Community’s Ban the Box list, job boards like Bridge of Hope Careers, and pioneering employers such as Timpsons, Greggs, Iceland Foods, Virgin Group, and Catch22 provide valuable opportunities for individuals seeking a fresh start. By focusing on these supportive avenues, ex-offenders can improve their chances of securing employment and successfully reintegrating into society.
Find your own willing employers through our recommended resources on our free upcoming webinar
About the Author
Rik has a combined honours degree in Law, and spent much of his career in the RAF as a Personnel Officer. Rik joined Offploy 5 years ago as a volunteer and then a Senior Social Employment Adviser and is now Offploy’s Training & Advocacy Manager. He delivers training all over the country to employers and frontline advisers. You can contact Rik through Rik@offploy.org
