Amey empowers inmates to build green prisons.

Amey, a prominent provider of facilities management services in the public sector, has achieved a significant milestone in advancing sustainability goals and prisoner rehabilitation through a pioneering Net Zero initiative at HMP Leeds.

The innovative project involved the installation of energy-efficient 31-Watt LED fittings in 430 cells, replacing outdated 60-Watt dual T8 fittings. What makes this initiative even more inspiring is that the LED lights were manufactured by prisoners at HMP Garth, providing them with valuable skills and training during the production process.

Not only does this initiative align with the UK Government’s vision to equip ex-offenders with employable skills, ensuring they are ready for the job market upon release, but it also serves a broader societal purpose. Research indicates that ex-prisoners who secure stable employment are 9% less likely to reoffend, thereby contributing to reducing the £18 billion annual cost of reoffending to the UK economy.

Amey’s commitment to sustainability and social impact is further evidenced by the successful delivery of 16 similar LED programmes across the HMPPS prison estate since 2021, as part of its Hard FM contract with the Ministry of Justice (MOJ). The collaborative effort between Amey, the MOJ, prison staff, and electricians has been crucial to the success of projects like the one at HMP Leeds.

The outcomes of the HMP Leeds project go beyond energy savings. It has achieved annual savings of 45 TCo2, £89,000, and 223,500 kWh, while also reducing maintenance costs due to the durable design of the new gear trays. This highlights the dual impact of the initiative in terms of sustainability and cost-efficiency.

Pete Mathieson, Business Director for Amey, expressed his pride in the project’s success, emphasizing how sustainable initiatives like this one play a vital role in prisoner rehabilitation. By offering inmates practical skills and work experience, Amey is not only enhancing their confidence but also increasing their chances of successful reintegration into society post-release.

Furthermore, this initiative reinforces Amey’s existing CRED programme and partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh’s charity, which aims to improve employment prospects for young offenders once they have completed their sentences.