Government Whip heaps praise on firm’s prisoner employment scheme

The Government Whip has praised medical device manufacturer Pennine Healthcare’s ‘forward-looking approach’ by offering employment opportunities to prisoners nearing the end of their sentences.

The employee-owned Derby firm was recently visited by Sir Nicholas Dakin, who as well as being Government Whip, is Lord Commissioner of HM Treasury and Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Justice).

The visit highlighted the success of Pennine’s Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) Scheme, providing an opportunity to share the company’s vision for unlocking prison industry potential, strengthening the UK’s MedTech sector and helping to reduce reoffending rates.

Head of operations Richard Cohen said: “We believe our ROTL initiative represents the best of socially responsible business – offering second chances, strengthening our workforce and supporting the communities we serve.

“It was an honour to share our progress and future ambitions with Sir Nicholas.”

Chief executive Graeme Cameron said: “By partnering with prisons and government, we can drive meaningful change, supporting protection through the products we manufacture, strengthening UK supply chains and helping reduce reoffending.”

Prior to the visit to Pennine’s headquarters, Graeme and Richard joined Sir Nicholas at HMP Ranby, where they presented their long-term vision for rehabilitation-focused employment opportunities.

The group then travelled to Derby to tour Pennine’s state-of-the-art manufacturing and packaging facility, where they met team members and saw first-hand the positive impact of ROTL placements.

Over recent months, Pennine has successfully integrated ROTL workers into its cleanroom operations, providing valuable skills development and employment opportunities for individuals nearing the end of their custodial sentences.

The scheme aims to rebuild confidence, support reintegration and create a new talent pipeline for UK manufacturing.

During his visit, Sir Nicholas praised Pennine’s forward-looking approach, noting the company’s dual commitment to community reintegration and UK MedTech innovation.

Pennine’s leadership reaffirmed that the ROTL initiative is not only about delivering social impact, but also about ensuring sustainable growth for the UK’s manufacturing base.

With a significant portion of its cleanroom team approaching retirement, ROTL placements are helping Pennine develop the next generation of skilled workers while supporting rehabilitation.

Catherine Atkinson, MP for Derby North, said: “Having visited Pennine before, I was pleased to return with Nic Dakin so government could see the difference being made here in Derby.

“Through their ROTL scheme and plans to offer work inside prisons, Pennine is helping people build skills and move into secure work.

“This approach will help to reduce reoffending, make communities safer and strengthen Derby’s leading role in UK manufacturing and MedTech.”