From Lived Experience to Social Enterprise

James served an 18-month prison sentence and was released early for good behaviour. During his time in custody across three prison categories, he experienced first-hand the confusion faced by first-time inmates. Like many others, James was unprepared for prison life, struggling with unfamiliar terminology, navigating routines, understanding what to bring, and knowing who to inform. This lack of accessible, practical guidance led to widespread confusion and isolation.

Following his release, and while recovering from two strokes, James was determined to build a positive future. Through conversations with Clean Slate Solutions, he identified a clear need to support the 65,700 first-time offenders entering UK prisons each year, as well as legal professionals who often lack direct insight into the prison system. He wanted to use his experience to reduce the psychological impact of incarceration, improve legal outcomes, and contribute to lower rates of reoffending.

Support & Intervention

James was referred to Momentic, where he accessed specialist start-up support and engaged with the Trailblazer programme. He also sought funding advice via the Growth Hub Helpdesk, to support the cost of a Certificate of Competency in Prison Law, a key requirement for launching his business.

Although no suitable grants were available, James was supported to explore alternative funding routes. With tailored guidance from Faye Greer-Pickup, helpdesk and pre-start support specialist, he successfully secured discretionary funding through his Work Coach, supported by a strong and well-evidenced business plan. To strengthen his funding application and business viability, James received support to:

• Develop and refine a robust business plan.
• Conduct market research.
• Improve structure, tone, and professional presentation.

Outcomes & Progress

James established PLAS as a Community Interest Company (CIC), ensuring a sustainable social enterprise model that allows him to earn a wage while delivering impact-driven services. He was referred to Up For Yorkshire, where additional VCSE support helped him successfully set up the CIC. Despite a period of hospitalisation, James remained engaged and proactive.

Key outcomes include:

• Launch of his website.
• Participation in multiple events, including a number of Steps into Digital sessions, The Marketing Mastery Series, and Data Analytics and LinkedIn workshops.
• Enrolment in the 90-Day Roadmap programme.
• Delivery of pro-bono services to build credibility and social proof, resulting in new referrals.
• Development of a social media policy to safeguard vulnerable users.

Impact

James is now building a social enterprise that provides one-to-one support for offenders, rehabilitation interviews, and workshops for legal professionals. His work is rooted in lived experience and addresses a critical gap in the prison system, improving preparation, reducing distress, and supporting better long-term outcomes.

James said:

“The Growth Hub gave me the framework and the confidence to believe that I could do this. Faye helped me structure my dream into a reality. Just to know that Faye was there was enough! She helped and encouraged me all the way, with sound advice and pointing me in the right direction. She also encouraged me to join certain events and programmes relevant to me and my business. Her feedback was just right, as in, if I got something wrong or something didn’t look right, she wasn’t afraid to tell me, which I needed, I am not an expert but, she is. I am not going to lie, and say it is easy, it is not!”

Faye Greer-Pickup, Pre-Start Support Specialist, said:

“James has shown exceptional resilience and determination. His commitment to learning, adaptability, and thoughtful planning has transformed a powerful lived experience into a viable and impactful social enterprise.”