Willmott Dixon

Willmott Dixon launches prison construction academy



Willmott Dixon has launched its first prison-based construction academy in Kent.


The construction firm and HMP Elmley have teamed up to launch the Willmott Dixon Building Lives Drylining Academy following the conversion of a prison warehouse into an academy facility.

The academy will provide inmates with drylining skills and a Construction Skills Certification Scheme card.

Willmott Dixon has also equipped prison officers with the accredited skills necessary to deliver six week-long, in-house courses for prison residents.

The academy — which is the third launched by Willmott Dixon within the last 12 months — aims to upskill over 100 HMP Elmley inmates each year.

“Employment is a definite contributor to the reduction in offending behaviour and helps to build stronger family stability,” said Andy Davy, deputy governor at HMP Elmley.

Roger Forsdyke, managing director in south London and southern Homes Counties at Willmott Dixon, added: “Our company is committed to transforming 10,000 people’s life chances by 2020 and this academy is very much aimed at delivering this promise.”



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