National Grid funds new café giving ex-offenders in Bristol a new start

National Grid has backed the opening of a new community café in Bristol, which aims to support ex-offenders and reduce reoffending rates across the South West. As part of the Hinkley Connection Project’s Adult Skills Programme, local charity The Key Unlock Potential were awarded with £100,000 in funding to bring the initiative to life. 

The café which opened its doors in April, is located on Gloucester Road next to HMP Bristol. It will serve as a community hub and training ground for individuals currently in prison, on licence, or recently released from Bristol, Leyhill and Eastwood Park prisons. It will also bring together public, private and community partners to create meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation. The project is part of National Grid’s wider commitment to creating long-term social value in the communities impacted by our construction activities as we work to upgrade and enhance the UK’s electricity transmission system. 

James Goode, former Hinkley Connection Project Director, said:

The Key Unlock Potential are an amazing charity and it's an absolute privilege to be involved in this project and see it come to fruition. The cafe will play a vital role in getting prisoners back on their feet after release by supporting them, their families and the wider community, but will also provide a hub for local people to enjoy.

The £100,000 grant from Hinkley Connection Project's Adult Skills Programme is supporting not just the café’s launch, but also a comprehensive rehabilitation programme. This includes CV and job application support, careers advice, IT and vocational training, and placements with other organisations. The initiative aligns with the UK Government’s prison reform agenda and reflects National Grid’s commitment to the communities closest to our works.

James Goode and Tim Robbins, former and current Project Directors of the Hinkley Connection Project, joined Darren Jones MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, at The Key Cafe opening event on 25 April 2025 to celebrate the milestone and highlight the importance of corporate support in driving social change.

National Grid’s support for prisoner rehabilitation in the region builds on previous partnerships, including funding for  Life Cycle UK, through the Hinkley Connection Project. The charity, also based at HMP Bristol, helps prisoners gain cycle mechanic qualifications and valuable skills for life after release.

To learn more see Creating second chances for prisoners in the Bristol area | National Grid ET.