The Irish Association for Social Inclusion Opportunities recently released their 2018-2019 impact report on the Fund for Former Offenders. Round 8 of the fund began on the 8th of August 2018 when it was replenished with €39,000. The funding lasted 13 months, from August 2018 to September 2019, during which time a total of 98 applications were made on behalf of 96 IASIO clients (prisoners and probationers). Funding for this initiative has been provided through The Community Foundation for Ireland and St. Stephen’s Green Trust.
This fund aims to provide education and further opportunities to former offenders who have experienced imprisonment and issues related to this as well as some current prisoners. Grants ranged between €40 - €1000, depending on need with €1,000 being the maximum amount for a grant per course. Courses sought spanned all levels and types, from short term training to full-time Third Level courses. 77 clients have already completed their courses.
Construction and transport/logistics were some of the most popular course choices. There was also a high level of interest for Barber/hairdressing courses throughout Round 8 and many of these clients have job offers awaiting them on completion of the course. Similarly, there was a demand for short term, practical courses which are likely to lead directly into employment such as Barista Training, HACCP, Safe Pass, Manual Handling and Forklift Driving - high demand, market-led courses which are not readily available or accessible through state funded training & employment agencies.
Feedback from clients has been overwhelmingly positive. “One client didn't have the means to finance course himself even though there was a job offer for him on completion. This was a source of frustration for him, but thankfully we were able to overcome it with funding from The Community Foundation for Ireland.” Another stated: "The job is great. I couldn't believe things could turn around like this for me after such a personal struggle to have employers accept and believe in me. I am grateful to many people who have encouraged me to go forward when I just wanted to give up.”
Overall the fund has benefitted 96 individuals with 36 already progressing to further employment and 28 advancing to further training/education opportunities. If you would like to find out more information on how you can support causes close to your heart and improve the lives of vulnerable communities visit our Giving section here.