Posted on: Monday 20 November 2023
A mechanic has joined Torfaen Council's fleet team, thanks to a chance meeting at HMP Prescoed.
The job vacancy had been advertised via the council's website but no one applied for the position.
During visit to HMP Prescoed to discuss potential employment opportunities, Mark Thomas, Deputy Director, Economy and Environment, bumped into qualified mechanic Jamie Smith.
Jamie, who was coming to the end of a sentence for drug offences, agreed to take the job on as a placement and has since been offered a permanent position.
Jamie, 28, from Swansea, said: "I was due to start another job with a supermarket but I'm a trained mechanic so I jumped at the opportunity.
"I've really enjoyed working here and I'm looking forward to improving my skills and getting other qualifications."
Mark said: “Jamie has been a fantastic addition to our team and has proven himself to be dedicated and motivated.
“This was a position we were unable to fill through our usual routes and linking with HMP Prescoed has given us the opportunity to find a great candidate - and provided Jamie the chance to prove himself.”
Jamie has been supported by Fleet Maintenance Manager Scott Griffiths and Senior Transport Officer Jill Parrish, who both helped arrange the placement and have provided mentoring.
Scott said: "Jamie works really hard and has fitted in with the team really well. He catches the train from Swansea every day and it can take him two hours to get home, but he is always really enthusiastic and keen to learn.
"Jamie is qualified to work on light goods vehicles and we are planning to put him through the qualifications he needs to work on heavy goods vehicles."
Angela Rogers, HR manager, added: “We are always looking for different ways to provide routes into employment with the council.
"We met with representatives from HMP Prescoed before the pandemic, and I am pleased we have been able to identify a suitable opportunity for the right person.”
Visit our website for information about job opportunities at Torfaen Council.