Journey from Prisons to Pathways of Success
DSA Connect (DSAC) has made remarkable journey since its establishment in 2011. Initially partnering with the Ministry of Defence for asset disposal, DSAC built a strong foundation in the secure disposal of IT assets and data eradication, adhering to rigorous protocols. By 2020, as the working world underwent significant changes, DSAC expanded its focus, incorporating prison workshops into its services, demonstrating its adaptability and commitment to innovative business solutions.
From IT Asset Disposal to Social Innovation
With lockdowns and dwindling workforces, Harry Benham, DSAC’s Chairman, began exploring workshops within prisons. Throughout his career, Harry had valued the skills, reliability, and enthusiasm of ex-offenders, recognising the positive impact employment could have on their lives. He was soon asked to get involved in the Employment Advisory Boards as clearly this was someone who would listen and take heed. DSAC made its first official hire from prison in February 2022. The impact we have seen on this individual’s life has been inspiring. In fact, when we asked Sam (not his real name) what it meant to him to have employment upon release he said, “It gave me stability and made me ready to re-integrate into society”.
Xerox Partnership: A Game-Changer for Prisoners
Since then, DSAC’s journey within the prisons has gone from strength to strength. Early 2022 DSAC ignited discussions with Xerox with thoughts of how they could work with us to support the prison initiative. Xerox, supplier of print services to the Ministry of Justice for many years, recognised the potential of a creating a digital workshop for end-of-life printers. HMP Highpoint was then approached to partner with us on this initiative and by February 2023 a proof of concept was initiated on site. Following this, the workshop went live with 12 prisoners and with an increased workshop space this has now increased to 30. The agreement? That all off the MoJ’s redundant printers would pass through the workshop for component recovery.
Empowering Prisoners Through Employment
A HMP Prison spokesperson said, “This program has energised the men, providing them with valuable skills for life and supporting their eventual resettlement. It is a great feeling to be involved with the men in contributing to a giving back activity.” The workshop specialises in asset recycling through meticulous component recovery. Upon arrival, each printer is logged with Aiken Workbench so there is a full audit trail. From there, it undergoes a comprehensive recycling journey, including secure data destruction.
The Role of Sustainable Recycling in Reducing Waste
The skilled workers meticulously dismantle the printers, sorting materials like plastics, glass, metals, toners and circuit boards. With precision and efficiency, the workshop achieves an impressive 99% weight matching on the before-and-after batch testing, with over 99.8% of components passed on to local recycling specialists. An impressive low figure of 0.02% is classified as Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). Aiken provides real-time progress tracking, offering valuable insights for sustainability reporting for Xerox and other stakeholders. It’s not just recycling; it’s a dedication to both environmental and social responsibility.
Pathways to Success
But wait, there’s more! One distinguished participant really stood out and DSAC were pleased to offer him a job January 2023 – a testament to the transformative power of this program! There have also been several other offers handed out to prisoners since then and we are confident that there will be more to come. Hannah Foggo, ESG and Sustainability Relation Manager, is working hard to help build the Pathways to Employment for those who are going through our workshop. Matching potential candidates with employers where possible.
Looking Ahead: Building on Success
Our mission? To be the unwavering support system guiding individuals journey toward employment opportunities post-release. With each step, we’re building bridges to brighter futures, ensuring they step out with confidence and a head start towards success! In Harry’s words in essence we are “Creating a sustainable Pathway to Employment for prison leavers, some of whom are already in useful full-time employment with DSA Connect, having taken their first very important steps to Reducing Reoffending”. DSA Connect, Xerox and HIMP Highpoint should celebrate being ‘Good-Doers’ for having established this unique foundation for both the environment and for society.
