NEEB Link Empowers HMP Chelmsford Inmates with Business Start-Up Skills Ahead of Release
NEEB Link Empowers HMP Chelmsford Inmates with Business Start-Up Skills Ahead of Release
NEEB Link has successfully delivered a practical and inspiring business start-up workshop to inmates at HMP Chelmsford who are due for imminent release, supporting rehabilitation through enterprise and self-employment.
The interactive session focused on the fundamentals of starting and running a small business, giving participants the confidence, knowledge and tools to consider self-employment as a positive route back into society. Topics included developing a business idea, choosing the right business structure, understanding pricing and customers, basic marketing and accessing free support, funding and mentoring.
Delivered by Sarah Brockwell as part of the NEEB Link programme, the workshop highlighted the wide range of fully funded support available across North Essex, including mentoring, co-working, networking, digital tools and access to grants. Participants were also introduced to practical resources such as the innovative NEEB App, free business planning tools, marketing platforms including Canva and AI tools such as ChatGPT, helping to demystify modern business practices.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with 100% of participants stating they would recommend the workshop. One participant commented: “Very insightful and informative, especially regarding charities and CICs, funding, mentors and the different tools available and the functions they serve.”
HMP Chelmsford staff also praised the session for its relevance and accessibility and have asked the team to return in February to deliver a Self-Employment workshop.
NEEB Chairman Councillor Ivan Henderson commented: “The North Essex Economic Board is committed to inclusive growth and creating opportunities for everyone in our communities. 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 (NEEB) and is fully funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Designed and delivered by The Consortium (East) Ltd, the programme provides free networking events and resources to help people start and grow businesses across Chelmsford, Braintree, Colchester, Epping Forest and Maldon.
By delivering targeted workshops such as this at HMP Chelmsford, NEEB Link continues to demonstrate its commitment to social value, inclusive growth and giving individuals the tools to build sustainable futures through enterprise. For more information about NEEB Link and upcoming events Click Here
