Ceredigion County Council website

Terry was referred to the Employability Support Team by Dyfed-Powys Police’s Integrated Offender Management (IOM) team in January 2025 following his release from prison. From the outset, Terry demonstrated a strong commitment to change by consistently attending appointments, engaging fully with support services, and expressing a clear desire to build a stable future away from the criminal justice system.

Working closely with Dyfed-Powys Police – IOM, the Probation Service, and the Auriol Offender Resettlement Service at Castell Ventures, the Employability Support Team supported Terry to overcome key barriers to employment and reintegrate into the community.

With a long-standing interest in construction, Terry was keen to re-enter the industry but faced a significant obstacle as his CSCS card had expired several years earlier. The Employability Support Team arranged the necessary training and assessments, and Terry successfully passed both his Highfield and Pearson exams on his first attempt.

At the same time, partner agencies supported Terry to settle into a new home with his partner, where they have since welcomed their first child. With greater stability in place, the Employability Support Team began exploring suitable employment opportunities aligned with Terry’s goals and aspirations.

Following discussions with Shaun, a supervisor at LJV Construction Ltd, Terry was offered the opportunity to interview for a labouring role. Shaun was fully informed of Terry’s background and probation status and was keen to support someone who was clearly motivated to rebuild their life.

After a successful interview, Terry began working at LJV Construction in August 2025. He embraced the expectations of the role, including random alcohol and substance testing, and quickly proved himself to be a reliable and motivated member of the team. His commitment and strong work ethic have already led to opportunities to learn bricklaying alongside an experienced tradesperson.

To help Terry begin work without financial strain, the Employability Support Team provided essential personal protective equipment (PPE) and work clothing, as he was unable to fund these items while managing everyday living costs. The team continues to maintain regular contact with both Terry and LJV Construction, receiving consistently positive feedback. Terry has also recently requested additional support to obtain tools to help him progress further in his bricklaying training.

Councillor Wyn Thomas, Ceredigion Cabinet Member for Schools, Lifelong Learning and Skills said: “This outcome reflects the dedication and collaborative approach of the Employability Support Team and our partner agencies, who work tirelessly to support individuals with complex needs. By building strong relationships with services such as Dyfed-Powys Police, Probation, third‑sector partners and local employers, the team is able to provide tailored, practical support that removes barriers and opens up real opportunities. Stories like this demonstrate why partnership working matters – it not only helps individuals move into sustainable employment, but also supports stronger families, safer communities and positive long‑term change.”

Terry’s journey highlights the positive impact that collaborative working can have when agencies come together with a shared commitment to support individuals. Through joint efforts between Ceredigion County Council’s Employability Support Team, Dyfed-Powys Police – IOM, the Probation Service, the Auriol Offender Resettlement Service at Castell Ventures, and LJV Construction Ltd, Terry has moved towards a pro-social identity, a pathway free from offending, and a more secure future for himself and his family.

The Employability Support Team remains committed to helping individuals overcome barriers, access meaningful employment, and build brighter futures.

For more information about the support available from the Employability Support Team, please email tcc-est@ceredigion.gov.uk or call 01545 570881.

23/01/2026