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SOCIAL VALUE PROJECT

Removing Barriers to Employment

RECRUITMENT OF PRISON LEAVERS

Carnell have taken part in several initiatives to create employment opportunities for prison leavers, who often face barriers to employment. This supports the government’s Plan for Change as well as aligning with the PPN 002 social value model.

Background to the Project

In 2023, Carnell recruited Lee through the Recycling Lives Charity, who find suitable jobs for prison leavers. He joined us after being given a 10-year sentence (reduced to 5 for good behaviour), served at HM Prison Wealstun, near Weatherby.

Lee was placed with AGC, Carnell’s joint venture with sister company Amco Giffen. AGC deliver road restraint system schemes across the Midlands, East, North West and North East regions of England for National Highways. Having gained experience working on the highways, Lee has progressed to the role of Trainee Supervisor.

Fast forward to 2025 and National Highways in the Yorkshire North East region developed the Northern Pathway into Construction social value initiative. The purpose being to connect prisons with NH supply chain partners and to provide advice, support and guidance on training and employment opportunities.

initiatives

AGC volunteered to visit HMP Hindley to deliver a three-hour careers talk / workshop on the roles in highways. The Employment Lead at HMP Hindley selected 7 learners based on their existing knowledge, experience and ambitions who were engaged throughout the session, particularly when Lee shared his journey and lived experiences.

In March 2026, Tarmac help a Prison Leaver Employment event at their National Skills & Training Centre. AGC were again in attendance, with Lee sharing his experiences with dozen’s of recruiters from organisations across the construction industry.

These interactions were both then shared with National Highways Road Restraint Systems Community in May 2026. The idea being that by sharing this best-practice then others will follow suit.

Positive Action

Carnell and AGC are looking to further improve their recruitment and social value activities. They will continue to support the creation of a more equal society by increasing opportunities for under-represented groups and providing a road network that is accessible for all.