At Rebuilding Future Alliances (RFA), we are driven by a single, powerful mission: to help ex-offenders find meaningful careers in transport, across both operations and infrastructure and, in doing so, transform lives, communities, and the industry itself.
The benefits of this mission are significant and far-reaching. RFA's research reveals that one-third of the UK's prison population are 'low-level repeat offenders.' Without a job, one in two will reoffend within six months of leaving prison. But when employment is secured, that number drops to just one in five.
The impact is not just personal, it's financial. Reoffending currently costs the UK economy £18.1 billion each year. By helping people into work, that burden could shrink to an estimated £5 billion.
A Talent Pool Hiding in Plain Sight
There are more than 12 million people in the UK with a criminal conviction. That is a vast, often untapped talent pool and RFA wants to change that. By connecting motivated individuals with purpose-driven employers, we are helping to reduce reoffending and deliver meaningful social value for communities and companies alike.
Breaking Down Barriers for Employers
For employers, the intent to hire from this group is often there but the process can be complicated. Background checks, fragmented charity networks, and inconsistent regional support all create barriers.
Imagine a national bus operator in the UK trying to do the right thing. In one region, they may partner with one charity, in another, a different one, each with its own processes and requirements. Every time they expand, they are forced to start from scratch, making what should be a straightforward, positive initiative into a fragmented and time-consuming challenge.
That's where RFA comes in. We have created a national alliance of charities under one umbrella, with RFA as the single point of contact. This makes it easier for employers to engage, scale, and create real impact across the country. We aim to simplify funding requests, share best practices, and serve as a trusted resource for employers throughout the UK.
The Science Behind Stopping Reoffending
Our work is underpinned by the theory of desistance, the process through which a person stops reoffending. It happens in three key stages:
- Commitment to change where the individual must genuinely want to turn their life around.
- A new purpose with a future and a meaningful career.
- Belonging where an individual feels part of a community that values and respects their contribution.
Support at each of these stages is critical and RFA ensures that support is in place.
We have partnered with a tech provider called Genius, who have developed a system to track and monitor candidates throughout their journey. We have also worked with the Rail Safety and Standards Board and social value consultancy Loop to co-develop a Treasury-backed social value tool. Endorsed by the Department for Transport, Network Rail and the Ministry of Justice, the tool generates tailored social and economic impact reports that companies can use.
Whether through sponsorship or direct employment, businesses can now clearly measure the difference they are making.
Want to Get Involved?
There is no better social value impact than employing someone from a marginalised group. RFA is calling on employers, partners, and supporters to join this movement. By removing barriers, supporting individuals, and working collaboratively, we can build a stronger, fairer workforce and a better future for all.
Because when you rebuild a future, you strengthen a whole society.
For more information, visit www.rebuildingfuturesalliance.com or get in touch with us at [email protected].
