Chester Zoo is among several employers opening their doors to ex-offenders as part of a scheme aimed at providing employment to ex-offenders.
The Fresh Start initiative has a target of placing 100 ex-offenders in work before September 2026.
It is being run in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Probation Service and specialist provider Tempus Novo.
In Cheshire, 11 ex-offenders have now been offered placements, with four more currently in the pipeline.
“Fresh Start is more than an employment programme, it is a practical way to cut crime in our county,” commented police and crime commissioner Dan Price.
“Together with businesses, public services and our communities, we are creating sustainable career options and reshaping lives.”
Chester Zoo was proud to have been part of the Fresh Start project from day one, said its chief executive Jamie Christon.
“As a major employer in Cheshire and with a wide variety of skilled careers, we will continue to act as a gateway to jobs for those in our community ready to seek employment.”
Valdemar Wawrosz and Steve Freer, co-founders of Tempus Novo, said the pilot offered a proven, practical model that reduced crime while supporting businesses and the wider economy.
Follow So Cheshire on Facebook, Threads and Instagram, or email cheshire@so-counties.co.uk with story suggestions and to enquire about advertising opportunities.
