David Morgan has been awarded a Covid-19 Action Fund Grant for Entrepreneurs Unlocked to support prison leavers into self-employment during the pandemic.

The funding has been awarded by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (WCMT) to assist Churchill Fellows in running projects across all areas of society to combat the effects of Covid-19.
David Morgan said, “Covid-19 has significantly impacted people in custody. All face-to-face education and resettlement services have been significantly reduced, negatively impacting access to learning opportunities and the chance to prepare for life after release. In addition, the pandemic’s economic effects mean fewer job opportunities, so the need to consider self-employment and starting a business will increase.

“I will use this grant to develop a digital support community for people released from prison and to support them in setting up as self-employed and earning a sustainable income. This is crucial as it is proven that helping offenders into employment reduces their reoffending rates.”

Julia Weston, WCMT Chief Executive, said: “David’s timely project to help prison leavers into self-employment during the pandemic will make a real difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our society during this challenging time. We are proud to support his work and that of our many Churchill Fellows leading projects over the UK to reduce the impact of Covid-19.”

The digital community, developed by David Morgan for Entrepreneurs Unlocked, is set to launch in the Autumn of 2021. The innovative digital platform will provide videos, tutorials, templates and ‘how-to’ guides, as well as connections with trusted organisations to advise on digital, business and finance skills. The platform will also provide an online buddy system, enabling people to share their experiences and encouraging them to access help with their well-being.