Eleven ex-offenders in Cheshire have now been offered the chance to make a fresh start, thanks to a new scheme that aims to cut the cycle of re-offending in the county.
Just three months after the launch of ‘Fresh Start’, an initiative led by Dan Price, Cheshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, the first cohort of ex-offenders are settling into their new roles.
Chester Zoo is among several employers opening their doors to ex-offenders in Cheshire providing meaningful, sustained employment.
The Fresh Start initiative aims to place 100 ex-offenders into work before September 2026, partnering with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Probation Service and specialist provider Tempus Novo who support both the ex-offender and the business.
Since the pilot launched in September, Probation has referred more than 100 ex-offenders into the scheme and 11 individuals have now job secured positions in customer relations and warehousing in Cheshire, with a further four placements in the pipeline.
Employment - alongside stable housing and supportive relationships - is one of the most effective ways to help someone to stop re-offending.
PCC Dan Price said:
“Fresh Start is more than an employment programme. It is a practical way to cut crime in our County. Together with businesses, public services and our communities, we are creating sustainable career options and reshaping lives. When we offer a second chance, people take it, and Cheshire becomes safer, stronger and fairer for everyone.”
Jamie Christon DL, Chief Executive Officer, Chester Zoo said:
“Chester Zoo is proud to have been part of the Fresh Start project from day one and in support of the work the Police and Crime Commissioner is doing. As a major employer in Cheshire and with a wide variety of skilled careers, we will continue to act as a gateway to jobs for those in our community ready to seek employment.”
Valdemar Wawrosz and Steve Freer, co-founders of Tempus Novo, said:
“This pilot offers the criminal justice system something genuinely different – a proven, practical model that reduces crime while directly supporting Cheshire businesses and the wider economy. Dan Price understands business and recognises a model that works. With patience, realism and a clear-long term view, this approach can be scaled sustainably across other counties.”
In March 2025, Dan Price held a launch event with Cheshire businesses and stakeholders announcing his vision for this project. As a result, a number of Cheshire businesses signed up to the scheme and more have signed up since.
Additional information about the Fresh Start programme can be found at:
More information about the PCC can be found at:
More information about Tempus Novo can be found at:
Pictured - Dan Price, Cheshire PCC held a meeting attended by Lord Timpson to prospective businesses interested in the offering.
Blues Match Preview: Chester FC v Chorley
Hard work of gritting teams keeps Flintshire moving
Project begins to upgrade 10km of Tarporley's water pipes
BMA supports whistleblower awarded £1.4m by the Countess of Chester NHS Trust
Council tax scam email warning
Chester Zoo launches major new programme promoting wellbeing through nature
Members of OCG ordered to pay back around £1.5 million
Local cycle network barriers in Flintshire
LOCAL CHARITY LAUNCHES FREE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Rare tree kangaroo joey emerges from pouch at Chester Zoo
Blacon Residents Urged to Complete Survey on £20 Million Investment Before January Deadline
Local MP backs new Road Safety Strategy to make roads safer in Chester North and Neston
Shoplifter jailed for two-week crime spree in Ellesmere Port
Try something new at libraries during Health and Wellbeing Week
Ellesmere Port Electric Van Showcased at Manchester Motor Show
COMMUNITY THEATRE SEEKS YOUNG ACTOR FOR LEAD ROLE IN SMASH HIT MONTY COMEDY
Three men arrested and illegal tobacco seized following partnership operation in Chester
Chester and Wirral Football League - Weekend Round Up
Comments
Add a comment