News & Updates

Marston’s expands prision training programme with launch of the ‘Crown & Key’ at HMP Stoke Heath

Up to 40 offenders a year will gain new skills and the chance of a fulfilling career outside prison following the launch of Marston’s latest prison-based hospitality academy, the Crown & Key, at HMP Stoke Heath in Shropshire this week.

The initiative, which helps offenders train for careers in pub kitchens as part of their rehabilitation, builds on the success of the Lock Inn scheme at HMP Liverpool and is part of Marston’s wider Excel programme, which supports prison leavers into meaningful jobs and helps reduce reoffending.

Developed with Novus Education and New Futures Network, the Crown & Key will provide real-world culinary training in a fully refurbished restaurant and pub setting, while practising their skills for prison staff and contractors.

Up to 40 men each year will train towards Line Chef roles, gaining hands-on experience, recognised qualifications, and a pathway to employment with Marston’s upon release. Marston’s is aiming to increase the number of graduates employed across its pubs by 25% this year.

The programme has already received Royal recognition after HRH The Princess Royal visited HMP Stoke Heath in July to tour the facility during its construction. This week’s launch event was attended by Tim Manton, Mayor of Market Drayton.

Todd Lockley, Senior Inclusion & Communities Manager at Marston’s, said:

“At Marston’s, we believe in second chances. These academies provide practical skills, qualifications and real job opportunities, helping people rebuild their lives while strengthening our communities and our industry. Offering employment to a prison leaver reduces the chances of re-offending by up to 87% and we are proud to play apart in their rehabilitation. That’s why we’d like to increase the number of ex-offenders we employ by a quarter this year.”

Marston’s Excel programme has already supported nearly 80 people into employment since 2022, achieving retention rates far above the industry average and opening opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Cameron Fisher, an Excel graduate now employed by Marston’s, added:

“This is the best thing I could have done. Learning these new skills, gaining employment and a home, has probably been one of the best feelings I’ve ever had. It really gave me self-worth and confidence, knowing that there are companies and people out there willing to give you a second chance. I couldn't have done this without Marston’s support”