Exia

In 2022, we awarded £40,000 to convert a disused building into an office and community hub.  

ABOUT THE ORGANISATION

Expia works in partnership with the Prison Service and The Ministry of Justice to support prisoners with learning new skills that can help them avoid re-offending after release. Expia does this by providing training in prisons as well as providing a real work environment where skills can be put into practice, and preparing prisoners for long-term work. The organisation works with several prisons and Youth Offer Institutions, including HMP Portland. Men work in Expia’s Jailhouse Cafes, Farm Shops and community gardens. These are used by local residents and income generated from the enterprises is reinvested to further develop and extend the offer to prisoners.

CREATING AN OFFICE AND COMMUNITY HUB

Following a consultation with the local community and prisoners’ families, Expia planned to convert a disused local building into a space that would create new offices for the organisation and a new community hub. Plans included a café, activity room, and a room for visiting families.

The aim was to generate much needed employment opportunities for local people, and voluntary work experience for risk-assessed prisoners. As well as developing Expia’s ability to support prisoners and reduce re-offending, the new facilities were designed to improve the environment for visiting families.

‍