Exploring 'Decent Work' with People with Criminal Convictions

This study investigates how people with criminal convictions think about ‘decent work’ and whether ‘decent work’ could support them desisting fromcrime. It found:• Participants in this study experienced extreme levels of marginality, poverty, exclusion and stigma. Their work histories are characterisedby low paid and insecure employment.• The main barrier to employment was disclosure of criminal convictions. In particular, the ‘criminal conviction tick box’ at the stage ofapplication limits chances for employment.• Being in employment was viewed as providing a means out of the isolation and poverty experienced whilst unemployed. The possibility offinding ‘decent work’ was so far removed to people with convictions that any job would be accepted.• Purposeful and stable employment, but also volunteering opportunities, are crucial elements of social integration and support desistancefrom crime.• Four main factors were identified as comprising decent work:• Being treated with respect• Decent pay to provide ‘enough money to get by’• A fixed term contract for a minimum period of a year which set the terms and conditions for employment• Opportunity for training