Lord Timpson announced last night that he will use evidence to improve prisons, stating that evidence was “something not often used in this world”.
The prisons minister outlined his commitment to the full five year government appointment during the annual Longford lecture held last night in Westminster. He asked to be judged on the changes he is able to make within the justice system.
In an unprepared and impromptu speech following his awarding of the Kevin Packenham prize to playright James Graham, he spoke of making the most of this opportunity, to allow prisoners and people under probation to “turn their lives around”.
He spoke of being “amongst friends” to the prison reform crowd assembled. He was last year awarded Kevin Packenham prize for his longstanding commitment to prison reform. His company, Timpson is known for employing ex-prisoners. He described those who he employed with lived experience of prison as “really good” and “really talented”, and giving someone a second chance was a “by-product”.
Other awards announced on the night were the Longford prize, awarded to the campaigning organisation UNGRIPP (United Group for the Reform of IPP), and the Pinter Poem, awarded to a serving prisoner, R, for the best poem submitted to the national prison newspaper, Inside Time.
The Timpson Foundation states that 10% of their workforce consists of those with criminal convictions, with a staff retention rate of 75%. Further, the foundation offers training to those currently in prison, ensuring they leave prison with skills and qualifications, with the potential of future employment.