Case Study

A winning team

18 Dec 2024

The complexities of working with people in prison or on probation can present significant challenges. Grassroots providers are instrumental in delivering local, accessible and meaningful support which forms such an important element of the innovative approaches taken by the Ingeus Justice division to drive successful rehabilitation.
One such example is Step Out Stay Out; a football coaching programme based in the East Midlands. Here we talk to man of the match Pete Bell about how siding with Ingeus has levelled the playing field for his micro-organisation to reach its goals.

Step Out Stay Out has been an Ingeus supply chain partner since the start of 2023, helping groups of men on probation in Nottinghamshire – and soon Derbyshire – to learn football coaching skills. With an enterprising slant, it teaches participants to set up their own business, all the while focussing on mental health, peer support, and combatting traumatic pasts.

Currently a one-man-band, founder Pete Bell is a FA-qualified coach and mentor with his own lived experience of the criminal justice system. The opportunity for him to work on the Commissioned Rehabilitative Services contract with Ingeus has proven to be a great match – with many benefits.

“The commercial aspect has been undoubtedly beneficial,” says Pete. “This work is enabling me to build up resources to hopefully employ staff in the future. Who knows what that will hold, but when Ingeus comes knocking, others take note. It’s taken what we offer up a level.

“I’ve been invited to networking events and they’re keen to spread the word too. Ingeus colleagues have presented our partnership at external conferences and secured leads from other areas of the country. They’re a powerful partner to have onside.”

The second major benefit according to Pete comes from the shared experiences of the team. Many Ingeus colleagues share Pete’s love of football and have experienced life in prison or on probation themselves.

“I’m lucky that my work and play combine so easily,” continues Pete, “and I know Ingeus colleagues feel the same. They’ve volunteered their time, joined in with fundraisers, and are always there to offer an opinion on things or bounce ideas around. We speak the same language.

“It’s never been a case of Ingeus dictating what we do. They’re keen to utilise my experience and in turn, I’m learning from their resources and processes.”

Pete’s passion – to inspire others who have lost hope – is the final, ultimate benefit of his Ingeus partnership:

“I’m being given a platform to inspire others within the prison and probation system who believe all is lost. My story, and many others, prove that it’s not and I couldn’t ask for more than to be working within the sector, with the people who need it most.

“I can’t fault working with Ingeus. 10 out of 10 from me.”

Large or small, Ingeus welcomes the expertise and innovation that local partners bring to our services. Be part
of the winning team – find out more about working with us.