Purpose Coalition and Sodexo host Breaking Down Barriers reception with Jacqui Smith and James Timpson at Labour Party Conference
In a powerful display of collaboration between government and business, the Purpose Coalition and Sodexo UK & Ireland hosted Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister of State for Skills, and Lord James Timpson OBE, Minister of State for Prisons, Parole, and Probation, at the Breaking Down Barriers reception during the Labour Party Conference.
The event, which also featured Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of the Purpose Coalition, Sean Haley, CEO of Sodexo UK & Ireland; and former England Rugby Union player Matt Dawson, who has been brand ambassador for Sodexo for 15 years, headlined a crucial discussion on skills development, prison reform, and breaking down barriers to opportunity at the 2024 Labour Party Conference.
Held in the Sodexo Live! Lounge at ACC Liverpool, the reception shone a spotlight on how employers, government, and purpose-led organisations can collaborate to dismantle the obstacles faced by disadvantaged communities across the UK. Central to this discussion was Sodexo’s Starting Fresh programme, which equips prison leavers with the skills and employment opportunities essential for successful reintegration into society and provides proactive steps for more businesses to recruit candidates directly from prisons.
The speakers engaged in a dynamic conversation about the transformative potential of collaborative efforts between government and industry, particularly in addressing social mobility and reducing reoffending. Sean Haley highlighted how Sodexo UK & Ireland is leading the charge, not only through its commitment to inclusive hiring but also by equipping prison leavers with critical skills and sustainable employment options.
Baroness Smith highlighted the government’s role in advancing skills and training initiatives, while Lord Timpson provided insights into reforming the prison system to promote rehabilitation and employment, key pillars of his work in reducing reoffending.
During the event, Sean Haley was honoured by the Purpose Coalition, being featured in the Purpose Power List for his outstanding leadership in advancing the social value agenda.