Around two weeks ago, we had the privilege of attending HMP Highpoint to see the opening of the first ever rail centre of excellence in prison, which back in 2022 we provided funding for installation of a rail track so that industry-standard training could be delivered to the men inside.
We talk a lot in the City & Guilds Foundation about our role in removing barriers for people to gain skills and opportunities. But in seeing the incredible facilities – a pipe dream less than two and a half years ago – the main feeling was that barriers had been not simply removed but downright rejected.
There was no ‘computer says no’, no ‘that’s not possible’, no ‘that’s too hard’. The absolute belief and dedication of some of the most hard working and passionate people I’ve ever come across has delivered equipment and training services that provide people with not just opportunities, not just purpose – but careers in which the possibilities are endless. The employers in the room, who have the power to give opportunity, showed a similar focus and sense of both responsibility and accountability for helping not only the individuals in questions, but their sector as a whole and this was a testament to an industry filled with camaraderie and awareness of the wider public that their organisations serve. It does take more than blood, sweat, tears and commitment. But on that day, it felt like maybe not much more. And maybe if there were more people working more closely together like they did in HMP Highpoint that day, we’d all be in a much better place.
Massive congratulations to the amazing team behind this excellent work, all the employers and everyone across the rail sector who has put so much into this.