New financial services for prisoners

Wed, 17 May 2006

The Co-operative Bank has created a new financial service aimed at prisoners.

Bank accounts will be made accessible to prisoners at the category B Forest Bank Prison at Pendlebury in greater Manchester just before they are due for release.

Prisoners equipped with a bank account will find it easier to gain employment as most jobs require the applicant to have some form of banking facility.

Previously, the process of applying for a new bank account was difficult and laborious for ex-prisoners who often don't have access to the usual documentation such as a passport and driving licence required by the banking firm.

Initially being trialled for 12 months, the new initiative will be judged as to whether it can help reduce re-offending rates.

Speaking about the scheme, Debbie Nash, head of resettlement and employability at the prison said:

"They have worked with us and understand the issues around reducing the risk of re-offending and we are delighted to have the Co-operative Bank as a partner to provide bank accounts to prisoners here at Forest Bank."

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