Uxbridge, U.K., —  

January 28, 2025 - A pioneering partnership between Xerox, DSA Connect Limited (DSAC) and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) is transforming prisoner rehabilitation while reducing electronic waste (e-waste) through innovative workshop programs.

The Electronics Recycling Workshop, launched in 2023 at HMP Highpoint South, has already processed over 3,000 devices, achieving zero landfill waste while equipping 30 prisoners with valuable technical skills and pathways to employment. Following its success, the program expanded to HMP The Mount in October 2024, where 26 prisoners now process 600 units monthly.

Xerox’s relationship with the MoJ spans many years, providing managed print services for MoJ departments, including HM Prison and Probation service, since 2014. The MoJ utilises over 5,000 Xerox® print devices across 700 sites. Building on this relationship, the Electronics Recycling Workshop, established in partnership with DSAC, now helps sustainably manage end-of-contract devices while equipping prisoners with valuable skills.

A recent pilot Component Recovery and Reuse workshop run by DSAC at HMP Highpoint, focusing on extracting components for reuse in Xerox devices, has demonstrated additional potential. There are now plans to scale up operations at a selected prison, potentially employing 30 individuals to process 300 devices monthly.

"Our partnership with Xerox and DSAC at HMP Highpoint highlights how collaboration can support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending. It’s a great example of what can be achieved when we work together towards meaningful outcomes,” said Steve Phillips, Head of Education Skills and Work at HMP Highpoint.

Research consistently shows employment significantly reduces reoffending rates, making these workshops crucial for social reintegration. One success story emerged from the program: a former HMP Highpoint prisoner secured a job at DSAC upon release, crediting the workshop for providing "hope for a real future after prison."

Harry Benham, Chairman of DSAC, emphasised the initiative's broader implications: "Inspired by James Timpson's previous work with the New Futures Network, we've focused on the social impact of prison workshops. Our aim is to provide real opportunities for ex-offenders, create pathways to employment, reduce reoffending rates, and positively impact society. The workshop’s success has inspired other business sectors to collaborate with us, offering career days and networking opportunities, creating a valuable step in gaining experience in a realistic work environment."  

“We are proud of the success of both the Electronics Recycling and Component Recovery workshops at HMP Highpoint South and HMP The Mount. We’re not just recycling electronics; we’re helping individuals rebuild their lives and protecting our planet. This initiative embodies Xerox's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility,” said Jonathan Leaper, Xerox EMEA Services Director.

 

About Xerox U.K. & Ireland

For more than 100 years, Xerox has continually redefined the workplace experience. Harnessing our leadership position in office and production print technology, we’ve expanded into software and services to sustainably power the hybrid workplace of today and tomorrow. Today, Xerox is continuing its legacy of innovation to deliver client-centric and digitally-driven technology solutions and meet the needs of today’s global, distributed workforce. From the office to industrial environments, our differentiated business and technology offerings and financial services are essential workplace technology solutions that drive success for our clients. At Xerox, we make work, work. Learn more at www.xerox.com and explore our commitment to diversity and inclusion.