Up to 40 offenders a year will gain new skills and the chance of a fulfilling career following the launch of Marston’s latest prison-based hospitality academy. The Crown & Key is at HMP Stoke Heath, in Shropshire.
The launch of the new initiative at HMP Stoke Heath this week
The initiative, which helps offenders train for careers in pub kitchens as part of their rehabilitation, builds on the success of the Lock Inn scheme at HMP Liverpool. It is part of Marston’s wider Excel programme, which supports prison leavers into meaningful jobs and helps reduce re-offending.
Developed with Novus Education and New Futures Network, the Crown & Key will provide real-world culinary training in a fully refurbished restaurant and pub setting, while practising their skills for prison staff and contractors.
Up to 40 men each year will train towards line chef roles, gaining hands-on experience, recognised qualifications, and a pathway to employment with Marston’s upon release. The company is aiming to increase the number of graduates employed across its pubs by 25% this year.
“At Marston’s, we believe in second chances,” said Todd Lockley, senior inclusion and communities manager at Marston’s. “These academies provide practical skills, qualifications, and real job opportunities, helping people rebuild their lives while strengthening our communities and our industry.
“Offering employment to a prison leaver reduces the chances of re-offending by up to 87%, and we are proud to play a part in their rehabilitation. That’s why we’d like to increase the number of ex-offenders we employ by a quarter this year.”
