The opportunity of a fresh start is being offered to ex-offenders through a life-changing programme delivered by AFC Fylde Community Foundation.

‘Positive Pathways’ is a ground-breaking programme delivered by the Community Foundation in partnership with Lancashire and Cumbria CRC and supported by Cuadrilla and Centrica.

It focuses on working with ex-offenders, supporting their rehabilitation back into employment or education and onto a pathway for a more positive, stable future.

The Foundation currently works with 15 participants and are seeing incredibly encouraging results. Through a holistic support package, the fully-trained and highly-experience Foundation team work with the participants helping with individual needs to develop and sustain a new way forward. Support is provided in such areas as accommodation, substance abuse advice and help, life mentoring, as well as various skills to improve employment opportunities. 

After spending a number of weeks on the programme, four participants have already found a new direction. Three of the ex-offenders have secured full-time employment and one has opted for a change in career and has returned to full-time education to study engineering.

Foundation Extended Services Officer, Charlie Hay has been working closely with the participants. He said: “Of all the programmes delivered by AFC Fylde Community Foundation, this is the one of which I am personally most proud.

“To be able to work with ex-offenders and help them turn their lives around is incredibly fulfilling. Supporting them on to a positive pathway to lead a more successful life is a great feeling. With each session you can see real progress and it’s a fantastic feeling to be part of that.”

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