Impetus support package:

Impetus investment period: 2011 - 2012 (Planning phase investment*)
Planning phase grant funding: £37,500
Pro bono services donated: £242,000               Investment management value: £84k
Total funding package to date: £364k

Impetus has invested in Shannon Trust as part of the Impetus for Reducing Reoffending Initiative.

Background to the investment:

The Shannon Trust peer-to-peer model of literacy training provides a unique and innovative solution to one of the biggest challenges facing offenders who wish to change their lives. For the estimated 48% of prisoners who lack basic literacy skills, taking advantage of educational opportunities within prison is not possible, and post-release employment prospects are even more limited.

The impact on the mentors is also profound - this is often the first time that they are able to see themselves as contributing something positive to society, and the effect on how they view themselves (as an educator, not a prisoner) is powerful and transformative.

The impetus for our involvement is Shannon Trust's potential to grow its impact and reach within the prison estate using a cost effective model. Shannon Trust approached Impetus as an engaged funder, to support its scale-up plan.

Focus of Impetus expertise 2010/11:

• Completed strategic review, considering all aspects of delivery model, including volunteer recruitment and  raining, organisational structure, impact measurement, and communications.

Key achievements 2010/11:

• New Head of Operations recruited to help manage the growth of the organisation
• Tri-annual national conference hosted at the end of March 2011; over 150 prison staff and volunteers gathered to share best practice, hear from sector experts and receive training
• Friends of Shannon Trust network launched at House of Commons event, hosted by Attorney General Dominic Grieve
• Featured on TV's "The Secret Millionaire" programme.

 Read more about Shannon Trust.