Prisoners to be taught in-demand IT skills

Prisoners will be taught in-demand IT skills with the promise of employment upon release as part of a new government scheme.

The scheme, which is being run at HMP Wandsworth, will train prisoners in voice and data cabling installation and provide inmates with skills in an area where demand for skilled employees outstrips supply by at least 20%.

The project is backed by the Department for Work and Pensions and has been set up in partnership with computing and technology companies Cisco and Panduit.

The aim is to secure jobs for prisoners on release by giving them skills to reduce the chance of reoffending.

"It is essential that before and after their release ex-offenders have access to jobs and advice so that they can move back into work and away from a life of crime," said Stephen Timms, minister for employment and welfare reform.