Marston's launches prison-based hospitality academy

The UK’s first commercially-led hospitality academy inside a women’s prison has been launched, providing offenders with a pathway to employment following their release from custody.

Pub operator Marston’s is behind the project, which it is calling The Hope & Anchor.

What is thought to be an industry-first training initiative, the academy is based at HMP Styal in Cheshire. Marston’s says this initiative sets a new standard for inclusive recruitment within the UK hospitality sector.

"The launch of The Hope & Anchor marks a significant milestone for Marston’s, as we expand our commitment to inclusive training and employment opportunities for all," says Todd Lockley, senior inclusion and communities manager at Marston’s. "Establishing the first hospitality academy within a women’s prison is not just about equipping individuals with practical skills and job opportunities. We’re also supporting rehabilitation through meaningful careers, reducing reoffending and empowering participants to build brighter futures within our industry."

How does it work?

The Hope & Anchor will provide up to 32 women every year with culinary training in a purpose-built kitchen and restaurant environment, preparing them for line chef roles and a fresh start in the hospitality sector upon release. 

The programme is delivered in partnership with Novus Education and the New Futures Network, offering trainees hands-on kitchen experience, professional qualifications and a direct route into work at Marston’s pubs.

The academy joins the growing network of training sites for Marston’s Excel prison leavers employment programme, including The Lock Inn at HMP Liverpool and The Crown & Key at HMP Stoke Heath. 

"Getting former offenders into stable work is a sure way of cutting crime and making our streets safer," adds Lord Timpson, minister for prisons, probation and reducing reoffending. "Hospitality partners like Marston's are leading the way – helping prisoners gain the skills and confidence they need to turn their lives around and break the cycle of reoffending."

Marston’s Excel programme has already helped nearly 80 prison leavers into jobs since 2022, achieving retention rates well above the industry average. The pub company says it is aiming to increase the number of ex-offender graduates employed across its pubs by 25% over the next 12 months.

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