Ex-prisoners’ inclusivity in employment : an in-depth analysis of rise foundation’s communications

Abstract

This study analyses the notion of ex-prisoners’ inclusivity in employment following the impact of RISe Foundation’s communications. In particular it examines a number of discourses conducted by the Foundation between their official launch (03/06/13) and September 2014. Subsequently, selected employers presented their feedback and views concerning the issues which were raised by RISe. The main findings include the development of seven categories which best characterize the Foundation’s themes of discourses. The employers’ responses were then cross-examined to portray an initial indication of the success or otherwise of RISe’s communications vis-à-vis the employment sector. It was acknowledged that employers had expected a clearer dissemination of the Foundation’s inclusivity programme. Also more practical information was requested concerning its applicability in the employment sector which is a key contributor on which hinges ex-prisoners’ inclusivity in society. This study further shows that despite RISe’s rather limited though regular communiqués – which certainly served to diminish labelling and stigma – the RISe programme and subsequent inclusivity process (including the Foundation’s stratagem inside the ‘half-way houses’), should be explained and presented in a manner that would better meet the prospective employers’ concerns and expectations.