Self-Employment Programme Testimonials

“The information has been invaluable, the booklets show that a career after prison is possible, but you need a dogged determination to achieve it. The course signposts you to places of support and provides a good footing on which to begin the journey. Thank you and keep up the good work.”

Entrepreneur Of The Future – HMP Wymott

“Thank you so much for your response and I really appreciate your guidance, these booklets are really helping me to prepare my business idea and slowly move towards making it a real possibility. I can struggle occasionally with self-belief and confidence, but I am certain that the more I research and learn the more I am able to make this business idea become a reality. I found the success stories booklet an inspiring piece that has made me determined to make a success of myself post release. I am grateful that people like you are helping ex-offenders move into business and stay out of prison”.

Potential Café Owner – HMP Stafford

“I had the privilege of  engaging with David Morgan in February 2021 after a referral by Achieve NW. After completing a substantial prison sentence I was endeavouring to commence a new business supporting and training both former offenders and marginalised individuals in the community to become professional drivers in the freight and transport industry. Entrepreneurs Unlocked have supported and advised me in all aspects  of my business launch. This has included preparation of my business plan, financial projections, marketing and matters in relation to tax affairs with the Inland Revenue etc. The help provided was tremendous and I would not hesitate recommending David and entrepreneurs unlocked to any aspiring individual departing custody and looking to commence their own commercial venture.“

Peter Hannigan – Driving Lives

“Your booklets are not only educational but also encouraging tools through their meaningful and powerful quotes and advice. Their presentation and clarity of messages are exceptional and made it unique.”

Aspiring Entrepreneur – HMP Leyhill

“I have really enjoyed taking part in the course, I have learned a lot over the four booklets, and it’s given me a lot to think about and help me see that I can start up my business. I would recommend this course to anyone who is interested in becoming their own boss.”

Future Personal Trainer – HMP Styal

“Thank you for all your support and extra information you have sent which will help me develop my idea further. If possible please can you send some posters about your work and I will talk to the resettlement rep on the wing to see if they can be put up.”

Advocate & Budding Artist – HMP Hull

“Thank you so much for your four booklets, they have all been very informative and helpful. They have helped my write my business plan and have a step-by-step guide on what I need to do to have a successful company.”

Future Author – HMP Stockten

“It was the best idea to write to you in order to know where I want to go with my life and stay out of prison.”

Sole Trader In The Making – HMP Haverigg

“David, I think what you have made is fantastic and I hope to put this knowledge into action to make a good living and to better support my family.”

Construction Worker Of The Future – HMP Whatton

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“I would like to say a massive thank you to Salford foundation and specially to Dave @ Entrepreneurs Unlocked. I’ve been working on a weekly basis with Dave to get my business up and running, I’ve been given amazing advice, tips and information to work with for the future.

Dave has been very helpful, friendly, patient and has always made time for me as I know if I have any trouble or questions, I know he will help. I have many different experiences, and tools being and handyman and maintenance expert, but Dave has help me open my horizon by helping me widen my business with funding to get my gardening. So, this is a massive thank you and here’s to the future.”

Pete – Landscape Gardener – Business Incubator Participant

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“Entrepreneurs Unlocked helped me greatly to get my business up and running. I had been doing some jobs for people I knew but needed to make it a more formal structure and make sure I was registered with the HMRC as a Sole Trader once I passed the earnings threshold.

Since working with them, the orders have grown and it has given me a regular income, and a focus on business and not other activities that in the past would have put me on a path of more criminality.”

Daniel – Bespoke Garment Printing – Business Incubator Participant

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“A significant turning point was my introduction to project by my probation officer, where I met David Morgan. David’s mentorship and guidance were pivotal in helping me set up my own business. This new venture, along with my role as an ambassador for Entrepreneurs Unlocked, allowed me to channel my experiences into helping others and advocating for restorative justice.

I have been into prisons with David and the other Ambassadors, giving talks to people in prison and sharing my story.

I just think if I can change one prisoner’s way of thinking that it’s just the revolving door of going into prison, coming out, and then going back in. If I can change one person’s way of thinking and show them that there is a different path, then I know I am giving something back”

Darryl – Professional Speaker – Business Incubator Participant

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SMART Subcontracting Programme Testimonials

“The booklet on setting up to be a self-employed subcontractor has been more useful and gave me more advice than the prison system has ever given me. Thank you for that.”

Prison Resident – Anonymous

“Awesome booklet, thank you!”

Prison resident – HMP Whatton

“Booklet highly appreciated”

Prison Resident – HMP Leyhill

“This route provides sustainable employment and career progression that combines both an area of high interest amongst our population, with a labour market set to see high growth in the area of construction. The Smart Subcontracting Programme provides an excellent opportunity for men to leave prison equipped with the knowledge and skills to support successful self-employment within the construction sector and will also reduce the risk of them reoffending.”

Learning & Skills Manager – HMPPS