Guest: Esther Champion, Myrtos Consultancy

In this insightful episode of the Time For Impact Volunteering Innovation Podcast, Chris and Matt are joined by Esther Champion from Myrtos Consultancy. Esther specialises in guiding organisations, employers, and volunteer-involving agencies to make their activities truly inclusive for individuals with a history of being in prison.

Together, we challenge the misconceptions surrounding this demographic and dive deep into how the voluntary sector can become a crucial bridge for reintegration. If you have ever worried about the risks of involving ex-offenders or wondered how to adapt your management style to support them, this conversation is essential listening.

• The Power of Reintegration: How volunteering plays a vital role in helping people successfully reintegrate into society, reducing isolation and providing a constructive path forward.

• Building Worth and Confidence: We discuss the psychological impact of volunteering, specifically how it rebuilds self-worth and confidence, serving as a powerful tool in preventing reoffending.

• Adapting Our Approach: Esther shares expert advice on how volunteer managers need to adapt their recruitment and support structures to effectively facilitate the future contribution of people with a criminal record.

• Reputation vs. Reality: We tackle the elephant in the room—risk. We explore why involving people with a history of the criminal justice system is actually beneficial for a charity’s reputation, demonstrating values of redemption and community support, despite perceived risks.

Esther Champion is the founder of Myrtos Consultancy. She is a dedicated specialist helping organisations navigate the complexities of inclusivity for people with a history of offending. Her work focuses on breaking down barriers to employment and volunteering, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.

• Connect with Myrtos Consultancy: https://www.myrtosconsultancy.com/

Does your organisation feel stuck? Are your volunteer programmes in need of a refresh?

Beyond the podcast, Time For Impact is here to help you rethink and revitalise volunteering within your charity or agency. We offer bespoke consultancy and training designed to innovate your strategy and maximise your social impact.

• Find out more about our services: www.TimeForImpact.co.uk

We are passionate about bringing you these conversations free of charge to help the sector grow and innovate.

If you enjoyed this episode and found value in our discussion with Esther, please consider saying thank you to Chris and Matt by buying us a coffee. Your support helps us keep the microphones on and the ideas flowing!

• Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/chriswadetfi

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