Before 2021 I had a good job, a career where I had already been promoted a few times and felt I had a bright future ahead of me. Then I made a silly mistake. A mistake that landed me a prison sentence.

During my time in prison, I was so afraid of what the future held for me now. I was scared of being labelled a “criminal” and that it was something I would have to carry around for the rest of my life. I was definitely concerned about my future career potential with a criminal conviction hanging over me. So I looked at my options, and Logistics seemed to be an industry less worried about labels. I learned from the prison employment team that they were about to launch an HGV program through Road to Logistics. I applied and to my delight, I was accepted onto the course.

The classroom training was brilliant. The tutors made the sessions relaxed and we were able to have a laugh in what can be quite an austere environment. This really made the learning easier and I felt for the first time in prison, that I was being treated as me and not just a prisoner. I worked really hard to pass my theory, and then went on to do my practical test. When I passed that I was elated. Not only was I over the moon, it was a huge relief to know I had secured a qualification that would help me find good, sustainable employment and a salary that would allow me to support my family.

I managed to secure a job with Veolia, and I am now thriving. I love my job – it is great being my own boss and the freedom that comes with being out on the roads. I feel like a respected person in the community and I have built really good relationships with both my team and the customers we serve. Above all, I am treated like a normal person – my conviction is in my past. I have served my time and now I am able to focus on a future as getting my licence and this job means that I don’t feel the stigma attached to having a criminal record.

The team at RtL have stayed in touch with me and I can go to them for any support I may need, even though I am now working. I feel supported which definitely helped with my transition back into civilian life. I am so passionate about the great work they do I am talking to my managers at Veolia about how we can use them more at my site.

The future looks bright for me – I am lucky enough to work for a great company who saw past my conviction and see the real me and my potential. So much so that there is talk of future development and promotion for me. I couldn’t be happier or more proud of myself for the way I have been able to get my life back on track, and I thank Road to Logistics for the crucial part they played in that.