Collaboration achieves positive outcomes

Release to Work (RtW) brokers and employment and training consultants (ETC) have challenging roles but with persistence and a real commitment to making a difference, have helped a man at Hawke's Bay Regional Prison succeed in his journey to employment.

The man was approved for Release to Work and began work at a local fruit packing house in February 2024.

"This was his first experience in paid employment, and like many people entering the workforce for the first time, he faced some early challenges," says Regional Manager Reintegration Services Katherine Higgs. "His initial role highlighted gaps in his understanding of workplace expectations, communication, and following rules, which ultimately led to his employment ending in May 2024."

The conversation with RtW brokers helped the man focus on how his behaviour and interpersonal style were perceived by others, and how this could impact employment opportunities. He listened, reflected, and took the guidance on board. With support, he began to better understand workplace expectations and demonstrated a genuine willingness to change. This shift was clearly noticeable, giving RtW brokers confidence to support him into his next employment opportunity.

After a successful interview with a construction company he commenced work as a labourer in March 2025.

RtW brokers continued to provide practical support to help him succeed. Within weeks, his new employer was impressed with his work ethic and attitude and offered him additional hours, including Saturday work as part of the concrete crew. To make this possible, the sponsor went the extra mile by collecting and returning him from prison.

As the man's confidence and capability grew, so did the opportunities available to him. With support from the team at Hawke's Bay Regional Prison, he obtained his restricted driver licence, further increasing his independence and employability.

In September 2025, planning focused on supporting the man to transition to a community sentence upon his release from prison. His employer, Corrections, MSD, and support agencies met to ensure a coordinated and supported pathway forward. As a result, the construction company offered the man a permanent contract. This enabled access to the Mana in Mahi programme, run by MSD, providing funding for training and apprenticeship opportunities. The man is now formally enrolled in an apprenticeship.

"Today, the man is thriving," says Katherine. "His supervisor describes him as an outstanding employee who 'turns up every day, rain or shine,' learns quickly, and can always be relied upon. Most importantly, he recently shared that he has been pre-approved for a loan for his first home, a milestone he proudly acknowledges would not have been possible without the combined support of his employer and support services."

This journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved when accountability, support, and opportunity come together.