Entrepreneurship is being used as a tool for rehabilitation at HMP Chelmsford, where inmates approaching release have taken part in a practical business start-up workshop delivered by NEEB Link.
The session focused on helping participants see self-employment as a realistic and positive route back into society, equipping them with the confidence, knowledge and practical skills needed to start and run a small business after release.
Designed to be accessible and hands-on, the workshop covered the core building blocks of entrepreneurship, including developing a business idea, choosing the right business structure, understanding customers and pricing, basic marketing principles, and where to access free support, mentoring and funding.
Delivered by Sarah Brockwell as part of the NEEB Link programme, the session also highlighted the extensive range of fully funded support available to aspiring entrepreneurs across North Essex. This includes access to mentors, co-working spaces, networking opportunities, digital tools and grant funding.
Participants were introduced to practical, modern business resources such as the NEEB App, free business planning tools, marketing platforms like Canva, and AI tools including ChatGPT, helping to demystify technology and show how digital tools can support small businesses from day one.
Feedback from inmates was overwhelmingly positive, with every participant saying they would recommend the workshop to others. One attendee described it as “very insightful and informative”, particularly praising the guidance around charities and CICs, funding options, mentoring and the range of tools available to support new ventures.
Staff at HMP Chelmsford also welcomed the initiative, praising its relevance and accessibility, and have invited the NEEB Link team to return in February to deliver a follow-up workshop focused specifically on self-employment.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, chairman of the North Essex Economic Board, said the initiative reflected a wider commitment to inclusive growth and opportunity.
“The North Essex Economic Board is committed to inclusive growth and creating opportunities for everyone in our communities,” he said. “Supporting rehabilitation through enterprise is a powerful way to help individuals build sustainable futures and contribute positively to society.”
NEEB Link runs until 31 March 2026 and is an initiative of the North Essex Economic Board, fully funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Designed and delivered by The Consortium (East) Ltd, the programme provides free networking events, workshops and resources to help people start and grow businesses across Chelmsford, Braintree, Colchester, Epping Forest and Maldon.
By delivering targeted workshops in settings such as HMP Chelmsford, NEEB Link continues to demonstrate how enterprise support can play a meaningful role in rehabilitation, social mobility and long-term economic participation.