The No Going Back Foundation has issued a letter thanking supporters for their contribution, and has published a short film highlighting the achievements it has made over the past five years. The Foundation supports prison leavers into employment, overcomes the challenges of housing, and provides training and general support. The Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants is proud to provide financial support to No Going Back through our Charity fund.
You can view the film below, and if you watch carefully you’ll even spot our very own Liveryman Steve Dunkley, who is involved with the charity.
In the letter, Chair Johnny Robertson and Executive Head Fran Findlater, said:
“The success of the No Going Back Foundation and the Social Enterprise, NGB CLEAN, demonstrates the impact that 42 Livery Companies working together can achieve to reduce reoffending.
“Our reoffending rate is just 4.5% against a Government average of 46% and we have worked with over 2,000 individuals. We have also built corporate partnerships that provide funding, mentoring, and skills-based training to help prison leavers transition successfully into the workforce. The diverse organisations we work with include Microsoft, JP Morgan, and Multiplex and where some contribute through jobs, others focus with us on employability and in-kind support, further strengthening our impact. The Foundation is funded through ongoing fundraising to cover the running costs.
“NGB CLEAN, established in 2023, has been supported by members of the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners along with extensive financial support from the Worshipful Company of Mercers and The Wates Family Enterprise Trust. It is a highly professional cleaning company which provides jobs for prison leavers and is thriving. In summary:
- It has secured a number of contracts including its first to clean a Livery Hall.
- It is approaching £500,000 turnover, which brings it closer to an eventual position where it can contribute financially towards the Foundation.
- It has also leveraged supporters to back both the CIC and the Foundation, with corporate partners providing direct funding and in-kind contributions, such as equipment, training, and business expertise in addition to prison recruitment workshops.
“Over 170 volunteers from the Livery and business world now participate in our workshops which are strengthened by the support of the prisons. In addition programmes providing one-to-one input and career guidance help change lives. While our 17 peer Ambassadors are contributing in ever-increasing ways within our programmes including delivering our Kangaroo assessment sessions.
“Looking ahead, we are increasing our work into the community, ensuring that support for prison leavers is enhanced. Through our expanded initiatives, we aim to offer more holistic support, incorporating mental health and wellbeing services, peer mentoring, and community-led initiatives that reinforce long-term rehabilitation and success.
“Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support is making a real difference in breaking the cycle of reoffending and creating new opportunities for prison leavers.”
