Everyone deserves a second chance. What’s even the point in prison if you can’t turn your life around after you’ve left? A YouGov survey found that 50% of employers wouldn’t employ ex-offenders, but it’s unemployment that can often draw people back to reoffending. That’s why The Restore Trust, an organisation dedicated to rehabilitation, has launched The Key Café in Bristol.
Leaping back into ‘normal’ life after isn’t that simple, with reoffending rates for ex-prisoners around 25% within a year. But this innovative coffee shop, staffed by ex-prisoners, aims to reduce reoffending rates by providing work experience to those transitioning from prison. Located on the Gloucester Road, near HMP Bristol, The Key Café is more than a cafe, “it’s a lifeline for those seeking a fresh start.”
There’s more than one reason to visit The Key Café, though. You’ll find high-quality baked goods—like frittatas, sourdough flatbread and fennel sausage rolls—and a range of drinks, including from local Bristol favourites like Canton Tea and Triple Co Roast. Many of the products have also been made by HMP Bristol inmates, including award-winning jam makers, Single Variety Co, ‘Jail Jar Jam’.
“As a local company, we’ve always sought ways to give back to our community,” said Ross Elliot, Director at Single Variety Co. “The Key Café’s mission of reducing reoffending through practical training really resonated with us. We’re thrilled to help create a unique jam for the café and, more importantly, offer new skills to individuals looking to turn their lives around.”
It’s been shown that those in employment within a year of release are significantly less likely to re-offend. So a visit to The Key Café isn’t just about supporting local businesses, but a way you can help support those trying to turn their lives around. Having opened its doors on Wednesday, May 5, The Key Café is now open Tuesday to Saturday, 8am to 4.30pm.
📍The Key Café, 246 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NZ
🌐 To learn more about The Key Café head here.