Neil Sampson, CEO of Solar Gates, attended a government roundtable at 10 Downing Street this week, joining chairs of the Employment Advisory Board for discussions led by Lord Timpson and Deputy Prime Minister & Security of State for Justice David Lammy.
The meeting marked significant progress in prison employment outcomes, with the number of people in work six months after release rising from 16% to 38% over the past four years. The government has now set an ambitious target of 50%, alongside a broader focus on reducing homelessness, supporting families and improving addiction recovery.
While the discussion centred on national policy, Sampson emphasised the important of practical action by employers. Solar Gates has supported the employment of ex-offenders for several years, working closely with HMP Standford Hill, where Samspon has served as Chair of the Employment Advisory Board for four years.
This commitment is reflected in tangible outcomes within the business. One of the company's younger recruits, who joined as an ex-offender, has recently passed their GateSafe qualification, secured full-time employment and moved into independent accommodation, demonstrating the role stable work can play in rebuilding lives.
Samspon commented:“There is work to do to help reduce reoffending. All the ministers need from new employers is an open mind and awareness that it could be the best thing they ever do for their business. We can certainly vouch for that."
Solar Gates continues to advocate for greater employment involvement, highlighting that while employment is only one part of the solution, it remains a critical factor in reducing reoffending and supporting long-term reintegration.
On a lighter note, Sampson's visit also included a brief encounter with Larry the Cat, though his attempt to capture the moment on camera was met with a gentle reminder of Downing Street protocol.
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