“Our new guide will provide practical support to people professionals, leaders and organisations of any size, who are looking to challenge the status quo, transform their own hiring practices and champion real social change.” - Head of Trust at the CIPD, Sally Eley

The Guide to Recruiting, Employing and Retaining People with Convictions, can be obtained by completing a short form here, has been produced by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

It also covers how employers can communicate their approach internally and externally and outlines the business benefits, including reducing recruitment costs, addressing skills and talent gaps, creating diverse workforces, enhancing company brand and reputation, and contributing to social responsibility.

According to official data, only 17% of ex-offenders manage to get a job within a year of release, while re-offending costs the economy approximately £18 billion a year. However, 86% of employers of people with convictions rate them as good at their job noting that they often also have higher levels of loyalty and retention.

In addition, 92% of employers say diverse recruitment has enhanced their reputation, helping them to win new contracts.

The CIPD advises those going down this route to train recruiting managers on their policy and any relevant legislation relating to recruiting and managing employees with convictions, as well as fair and inclusive recruitment practices.

They should also seek out suitably qualified mentors or champions where appropriate, to support people with convictions joining the organisation. Allies can play a powerful role in creating an inclusive culture, the CIPD points out, and help to provide valuable support.