About us
Our partner prisons refer young adult offenders due for release into London. These young people have an interest in catering and are seeking a positive change in their lives.
We opened our doors in February 2008, since then we have been working intensively with a relatively small number of trainees, more than half of whom have already started in permanent jobs or further education.
We are building a record of success in facilitating trainee’s achievements; from work placements, mock interviews and training courses to managing health problems, moving into stable housing and reducing contact with negative peer groups.
Reoffending rates for Switchback trainees are significantly lower than average; only 20% were reconvicted in 2010.
Read more about us:
"I’ve never come this far before. If it wasn’t for Switchback I would definitely be back inside by now."
PD
Switchback Trainee
"The Switchback trainee that we have taken on at River Cottage Canteen has been a great asset to the team. Switchback is doing an important thing. It’s challenging work that makes a real difference, both for the lads involved, and for all of us that want to live in a more compassionate, hopeful society."
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall
Food Writer and Restaurateur