The industry-first training initiative is based at HMP Styal in Cheshire and will provide offenders with a pathway to employment following their release from custody.
Marston’s says the opening of ‘The Hope & Anchor’ marks a significant milestone in its commitment to creating life-changing opportunities for marginalised groups and sets a new standard for inclusive recruitment within the UK hospitality sector.
As the first hospitality academy of its kind for women in custody, the academy will provide up to 32 women every year with culinary training in a purpose-built kitchen and restaurant environment, preparing them for line chef roles.
The programme is delivered in partnership with Novus Education and the New Futures Network, ensuring that trainees gain hands-on kitchen experience, professional qualifications, and a direct route into work at Marston’s pubs.
Commenting, Lord Timpson, minister for prisons, probation and reducing reoffending, said: “Getting former offenders into stable work is a sure way of cutting crime and making our streets safer. Hospitality partners like Marston’s are leading the way – helping prisoners gain the skills and confidence they need to turn their lives around and break the cycle of reoffending."
The official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place last week (Thursday 6 November 2025), with guests touring the facilities and meeting the first cohort of trainees. Visitors also enjoyed food prepared by the trainees and learned first-hand how the programme is transforming lives.
The Hope & Anchor joins the growing network of training sites for Marston’s Excel prison leavers employment programme, including The Lock Inn at HMP Liverpool and The Crown & Key at HMP Stoke Heath.
The Excel programme has helped almost 80 prison leavers into jobs since 2022, and, according to Marston’s, has achieved retention rates well above the industry average.
Marston’s is now looking to increase the number of ex-offender graduates employed across its pubs by 25% over the next 12 months.
Cameron Fisher – an Excel graduate now employed by Marston’s – shared his thoughts on the opening of this new academy.
“Getting a second chance with Marston’s changed everything for me,” he said.
“The support, training, and belief in my potential gave me the confidence to rebuild my life and aim higher. Seeing this opportunity now extended to women at HMP Styal is inspiring and The Hope & Anchor will give others the same chance to prove themselves and start again. I know first-hand how much that means.”
Todd Lockley, senior inclusion & communities manager at Marston’s, added: “The launch of The Hope & Anchor marks a significant milestone for Marston’s, as we expand our commitment to inclusive training and employment opportunities for all. Establishing the first hospitality academy within a women’s prison is not just about equipping individuals with practical skills and job opportunities. We’re also supporting rehabilitation through meaningful careers, reducing reoffending and empowering participants to build brighter futures within our industry.”
