Since 2014, we’ve been working to break the cycle of reoffending by providing; mentoring, volunteering, training, and meaningful employment opportunities. The numbers below reflect the real-world impact of our approach, not just statistics, but lives changed, communities strengthened, and potential unlocked.
12,640
Employed hours in our enterprises in 23 / 24
3994
Volunteer hours
in 23 / 24
346
People supported
in 23 / 24
70%
Of our staff have a criminal record
1
New enterprise opened in 2024
Changing Lives: Our Enterprises and People
Our 6 enterprises don’t just provide training and employment they create sustainable pathways to change while delivering quality products and services. Within our enterprises are real people making real progress:
188
People supported in the Community in 23/24
158
People supported in Prison in 23/24
Each of these statistics represents a step toward our vision: communities where people with criminal records can rebuild their lives through meaningful work, contributing positively to society and breaking free from the cycle of reoffending.
Breaking the Cycle: Reoffending Statistics
The challenge of reoffending is one of the most persistent issues in our criminal justice system. The North East has consistently recorded some of the highest reoffending rates in England and Wales for over a decade. In stark contrast, The Oswin Project has achieved remarkable results through our holistic approach.
67%
Regional reoffending rate in the North East within one year of release
63%
Reoffending rate across England and Wales for those serving short sentences (less than 12 months)
43.8%
– Reoffending rate across England and Wales for those with more than 11 prior convictions
4%
Reoffending rate among actively engaged Oswinners
These figures demonstrate that with the right support at the right time, the cycle of reoffending can be broken—creating safer communities and offering individuals genuine opportunities to rebuild their lives.
The Education Gap: Learning and Skills
Many people entering the criminal justice system face significant educational disadvantages which create barriers to employment and reintegration:
47%
Prisoners, who report, having no qualifications at all.
13%
Prisoners who have never had a job.
20
Number of convictions the average prisoner in England has.
Through our enterprises, we ‘ve arranged for the following training:
1
serving prisoner on a recognised apprenticeship scheme
4
Level 2 Plant Growth and Propagation
29
Food Hygiene, Food Safety & Intolerance
4
Level 2 Hospitality
3
Level 2 Catering
6
CSCS, CCDO, Asbestos Awareness Course
3
Teaching & Assessing Level 3
4
Mental Health First Aid Level 1 and 2
9
Mentoring Level 2
By providing targeted education and skills development, we help bridge the gap between prison and sustainable employment, recognising
potential and providing opportunities.