CFO Evolution is built on over twenty years of working with offenders in custody and the community. The programme offers tailored support for offenders - particularly those who are considered disadvantaged, those ill-equipped to effectively engage with mainstream services, or face barriers preventing them from successfully reintegrating into their local community. CFO supports offenders that lack the hard and softer life/functional skills required by employers and are not fully supported by existing programmes.
The provision is voluntary for participants.
Some of the most commonly provided support for participants accessing CFO services includes:
- Addressing wider barriers to accessing mainstream opportunities (addictions, low levels of literacy/numeracy, motivation and confidence levels, preparation for parole etc.)
- Overcoming practical obstacles (obtaining ID, registration with GP/dentist, support to retain or secure a tenancy)
- Additional skills (healthy living, money management, safeguarding, wellbeing etc.)
- Practical courses (vocational, basic skills, financial literacy etc.)
- Improving likelihood of securing employment (disclosure, CV creation, interview techniques, job applications, communication skills etc.)
- Preparation for re-entering the community (awareness/use of social media, appropriate peer groups, building networks etc.)
- Specific issues facing certain cohorts (care leavers, veterans, lifers/ISPs, PCOSOs etc.)
- Securing employment, training and education opportunities for release
- Through the gate support to ensure newly released individuals can continue accessing CFO services in one of the 33 CFO Activity Hubs, or within the wider community
To make CFO referrals, you can follow these steps:
Self referral: Individuals can refer themselves by emailing their local CFO Provider – details can be found on the CFO Website
Agency referrals: Referrals to the CFO programme can be made through a single, online form. CFO Evolution Referrals – HMPPS Creating Future Opportunities