Clarks Village in Street teamed up with the charity Key4Life to host an employability day designed to assist ex-offenders.

The event saw participation from 16 young men from the South West, aiming to steer their lives positively by gaining employment or further education.

Chris Davis, Centre Director of Clarks Village, highlighted the importance of such initiatives, "It was our pleasure to host the employability day with Key4Life and support these young participants on what can be a tough journey through rehabilitation into the world of work."

High Sheriff Rob Beckley QPM, who previously served as an Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, commented on the personal transformations he witnessed, "Having been in the police for 38 years, I can absolutely say you must never write somebody off. The vast majority of offenders have had challenges and often mental health and addiction problems that need sorting out and for which they need support. Key4Life totally takes that on and gives these men the step up they need. This event is helping these men to find their way back into employment and society."

Eva Hamilton, MBE, CEO & Founder of Key4Life, also reflected on the success of the partnership, "Thanks to the amazing support from Landsec, Key4Life has been enabled to work with some of the most disaffected young men in the local community, giving them hope and supporting their journeys into employment and onto a positive pathway."

The event included practical workshops on CV writing and interview skills, motivational seminars, and was complemented by a session where participants were measured and fitted for suits. The collaborative effort is part of a broader three-year partnership funded by Landsec Futures, aiming to boost social mobility in the communities it serves.