Connecting the Dots IoD Cheshire's Commitment to Business, Rehabilitation, and Social Impact
As Chair of IoD Cheshire, my primary focus has been fostering meaningful connections that drive economic and social impact in our region. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of working with an incredible network of business leaders, government representatives, and organisations committed to creating opportunities, improving leadership, and giving back to the community.
One of the most exciting and impactful initiatives I’ve been involved with is our collaboration with HMP Thorn Cross and Dan Price, the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner. This initiative is a shining example of how businesses can not only grow but also contribute to reducing reoffending and reintegrating skilled individuals into the workforce.
The role of HMP Thorn Cross in rehabilitation and employment
HMP Thorn Cross, a Category D open prison in Appleton Thorn, Warrington, has established itself as a forward-thinking institution when it comes to prisoner rehabilitation and skills development. Jade McDonnell (Head of Reducing Reoffending, Drug Strategy & Families Lead) and Fergus Morris (Head of Education, Skills, and Work) are leading the way in providing high-quality training, employment opportunities, and education for prisoners—ensuring they have a real chance of securing meaningful careers upon release.
With over 1,800 individuals in Cheshire engaged with the probation service at any given time, and 50% of those leaving prison reoffending within three years, the work being done at Thorn Cross is critical to breaking the cycle of crime. Studies show that providing stable employment opportunities reduces the likelihood of reoffending dramatically—and that’s where businesses like those in the IoD Cheshire community can step in.
IoD Cheshire event at HMP Thorn Cross – 8th April 2025
To help showcase the incredible work being done at HMP Thorn Cross and explore ways that businesses can get involved, IoD Cheshire is hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes business event at the prison on Tuesday, 8th April.
This event will be a unique opportunity for IoD members and business leaders to:
- Gain insight into how skills training at Thorn Cross is preparing individuals for the workforce
- Explore opportunities for businesses to recruit loyal, motivated and skilled employees
- Hear directly from those who have turned their lives around through employment
- Understand the positive impact of business engagement in reducing reoffending
- Network with other forward-thinking leaders who see the value in inclusive employment.
Both Jade McDonnell and Fergus Morris will be sharing their perspectives on how the prison supports rehabilitation through education, skills training and employment programmes. You can book onto the event here.
Dan Price’s work in breaking the cycle of reoffending
In parallel to the work being done at Thorn Cross, Dan Price, Cheshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, has launched a new initiative to match ex-offenders with meaningful, long-term career prospects.
At the Breaking the Cycle event on 5th March, Dan, Sir Phil Redmond and Lady Redmond (Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire) gathered Cheshire business leaders to discuss how companies can tap into a hidden workforce of highly motivated individuals who are eager to rebuild their lives.
National data from the New Futures Network has shown that businesses employing ex-offenders report that these employees are:
- Motivated (93%)
- Trustworthy (91%)
- Loyal (89%)
- Reliable (88%)
The results speak for themselves—this is not just a social initiative but also a smart business strategy for companies facing skills shortages and retention challenges.
How businesses can get involved
For IoD members and business leaders who are passionate about making a difference, there are several ways to get involved:
- Attend the IoD Cheshire event at HMP Thorn Cross on 8th April – witness firsthand the impact of skills training and employer engagement
- Consider hiring ex-offenders – if you are in need of skilled, committed employees, the programmes at Thorn Cross could provide you with a pipeline of talent
- Partner with the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office – learn more about how your business can support the Breaking the Cycle initiative
- Share your insights and expertise – whether through mentoring, training or speaking engagements, there are many ways to contribute.
Final thoughts
As Chair of IoD Cheshire, my mission is to connect great people with great opportunities. Through initiatives like this, we have the power to reshape the way businesses think about recruitment, workforce development and social impact.
I encourage every business leader in our community to think about how they can be part of this movement. If you’re interested in attending our event on 8th April or getting involved in any way, please reach out.
Together, let’s drive business success while creating a fairer, more inclusive society.
Author: Stuart Waddington, IoD Cheshire Chair
About the author
Stuart is a leadership development specialist and business connector, dedicated to supporting directors, business owners, and professionals in their growth journey.
As Chair of IoD Cheshire, he fosters collaboration and drives initiatives that create stronger business networks and leadership communities.
He is also Founder of TDL Group, which operates in two key areas:
TDL Performance – Specialising in leadership development, coaching, and culture transformation, working with organisations to enhance high-performance leadership.
TDL Future – A Microsoft tech company that focuses on AI-driven automation, business transformation, and cutting-edge intranet solutions for modern workplaces.
