Social enterprises tackling re-offending to benefit from €300,000 funding

The funding, provided by the Department of Justice’s Social Impact Programme under its “KickStart” Seed Fund, consists of matching grants up to €30,000 to 14 organisations providing employment to former offenders and persons leaving prison.

A total of €300,000 was approved for the programme under the Dormant Accounts Disbursement Scheme to enable organisations to conduct a feasibility study or market research or for start-up and development costs.

Announcing the allocations, Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said: “This funding will help social enterprises to increase employment opportunities for people who have found it difficult to access the labour market as a result of their past. Those who have paid their debts to society will be given an opportunity to make sustainable changes in their lives, get back on their feet and access employment.

“We are justifiably proud that the unemployment rate at 5.4 per cent is the lowest it’s been since February 2008. However, we need to ensure that no one is left behind and that employment opportunities exist for all.”

He added: “In order to break the cycle of re-offending, it is important that former prisoners who want to make a positive contribution to society have an opportunity to work. Supported employment in a social enterprise provides a much needed buffer, allowing people in this situation to gain confidence in their own abilities while also earning a wage.

“It’s as simple as this: people who are given access to training and are in work are less likely to re-offend. This is important for the individuals, their families and the wider community.”