Working with CFO


CFO recognises that effective rehabilitation is achieved through shared, aligned working with partners across prisons, probation, government, and communities.

Working with CFO

CFO recognises that effective rehabilitation is achieved through shared, aligned working with partners across prisons, probation, government, and communities.

Collaborative approach

CFO works collaboratively with community and custodial stakeholders to understand mandatory delivery, enabling coordinated planning, complementary activity, and the avoidance of duplication.

Collaboration is well established with key stakeholders, with clear and active links across Probation, DWP, CRS, the New Futures Network, Prison Employment Leads, and others.

Working with the CFO Evolution programme can help participants to better engage with mainstream education and employment services.

Alongside practical support, the programme focuses on building softer skills including motivation and confidence, which enhance engagement and reduce barriers to reoffending.

Benefits of working with CFO:

Delivery is risk managed throughout with regular updates provided from Support Workers

Complements existing core HMPPS services, without duplication

Increased motivation and confidence to engage with other services

Holistic and employability activities suitable for participants at all stages of their rehabilitation journey

Can contribute to 30% of
Unpaid Work hours

Routine and time spent purposefully in a safe space within the community

Make a referral

Making a referral to the CFO programme is simple and easy via our referral form.

CFO Referral Form

What makes a good referral?

CFO work with participants who face the greatest barriers to progress, providing holistic support alongside tailored employability guidance. Participants can be referred at any stage of their rehabilitation journey – whether in custody or in the community – provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria
Participants must:
– Be aged 18 or over
– Have the right to live and work in the UK
– In custody: Be serving a custodial sentence or held on remand
– In the community: Be on licence or serving a community sentence (courts may also refer in some areas)

Suitable Referrals
CFO is particularly suited to individuals who are:
– Lack the hard and softer life/functional skills required by employers
– Struggling with independent living
– Socially isolated
– Facing multiple or complex barriers linked to reoffending

Participants who are finding it difficult to engage with mainstream services – such as Probation, DWP, or CRS – are also appropriate referrals. CFO aims to build the confidence, resilience, and motivation needed to engage effectively with these services and move towards sustainable employment.

If you are unsure whether someone would benefit from a referral, please contact your local CFO provider to discuss their circumstances.

Contact CFO

Learn more about CFO’s collaborative approach

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