Fred provides another Escape for prisoners
TV personality Fred Sirieix has opened a new restaurant in London – with a twist.
The restaurant is staffed by inmates from HMP Wormwood Scrubs, who are given training in a drive to cut reoffending rates.
City Hall has invested £108,000 transforming the prison staff canteen into a restaurant where prisoners can work towards a recognised qualification in the hospitality industry
The funding is part of an initiative from London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who attended the opening, that aims to reduce crime and increase employment opportunities for those who have served a prison sentence.
Mr Sirieix, star of Channel 4’s First Dates, previously opened a similar restaurant.
The restaurant, called Escape, is the second of its kind to be opened by charity The Right Source, founded by Mr Sirieix.
The charity supports prisoners in finding work once they are released from prison.
The new industry-standard facilities will allow prisoners to spend time cooking and learning the art of service.
Mr Khan said: “I’m delighted to be here for the opening of the ‘Escape’ restaurant – this is a brilliant initiative that gives prisoners practical work experience and highly regarded qualifications, which will help them get back on track after leaving prison.
“It is vital we do everything we can to prevent reoffending and give those who have been through the criminal justice system the support they need to turn their lives around.
“By supporting offenders to rebuild their lives through access to training and employment, we can break the cycle of reoffending, reduce crime, and ensure that all Londoners have access to the opportunities our city offers.”
Mr Sirieix said the charity’s aim is to reduce reoffending while addressing staff shortages within the industry.
“Our learners can help plug this gap if they are given the chance but we need to give them the right support and opportunities so that they can make the right steps upon release,” he added.
The restaurant, which includes a coffee shop, will provide full table service.