Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Justice on improving access to employment for ex-offenders.

The Secretary of State attended the Ministerial Reoffending Board on 26^th November, along with the Secretary of State for Justice. A range of issues were discussed, including improving access to employment for ex-offenders.

This Government recognises that supporting ex-offenders into work is a crucial part of effective rehabilitation. DWP officials work closely with their counterparts in MoJ to improve the outcomes for ex–offenders. The DWP has dedicated Prison Work Coaches based in resettlement prisons across Great Britain, who work with prisoners, prison services, local partners and employers to help secure training, work experience and employment opportunities. Ex-offenders are also entitled to tailored support from Jobcentre Work Coaches and early, priority access to the Work and Health Programme.