Insights from the FCBA Panel on Fair Chance Hiring: Key Takeaways

Fair Chance hiring is an approach aimed at providing employment opportunities to individuals with criminal records, recognising the significant positive impact this can have on individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.  

We were delighted to attend and participate in the Fair Chance Business Alliance Panel on March 6th 2025, where Hoa Ngo, Managing Director at Comensura and Chair of the EAB for HMP and YOI Drake Hall, joined other experts to discuss various aspects of Fair Chance hiring and how it can be effectively implemented. Those involved in the panel came from a wide range of sectors and backgrounds, with Comensura standing shoulder to shoulder on this issue with the likes of Virgin, KPMG, and WTW. 

Here are just some the key takeaways from the panel discussion: 

Encouraging Businesses to Adopt Fair Chance Hiring 

Fair Chance hiring not only provides vital opportunities for individuals with criminal records to reintegrate into society, but also enriches businesses with diverse talent, fostering a more inclusive and innovative workforce. 

To encourage more businesses, it will be crucial to discuss the benefits of Fair Chance hiring through comprehensive education and awareness campaigns, dispelling common myths and misconceptions about individuals with criminal records. It is also important to highlight the significant positive impact that employment can have on their lives and on society. 

Collaborating with advocacy groups, employer networks, and organisations specialising in Fair Chance hiring can provide businesses with valuable resources and support. These partnerships offer access to expert knowledge and experience in working with individuals with criminal records, helping businesses to implement Fair Chance hiring practices effectively. 

Hoa Ngo is passionate about getting more businesses involved through sharing the successes organisations have had to date. 

“Sharing real-life success stories of businesses that have successfully implemented Fair Chance hiring practices can serve as powerful motivation for other companies,” she states “We’ve worked with a company that have taken on multiple workers that have recently been released from prison.  

A real success story was one woman who started off with a temporary role, but she has proved so hardworking and motivated that she was made permanent. They are now in the process of putting her through her HGV license training, making her an invaluable team member with a skill that the UK is currently very short on. Highlighting the positive outcomes for both individuals and businesses can demonstrate the tangible benefits of adopting inclusive hiring practices.” 

Measurable Benefits of Diverse Talent Pipelines 

From the experience of working with clients on talent acquisition strategies, the panelists highlighted several measurable benefits of building diverse talent pipelines: 

The FCBA Panel on Fair Chance hiring provided valuable insights into the importance of inclusive hiring practices and the steps that businesses can take to implement them effectively. By focusing on education, partnerships, success stories, and addressing biases, we can create a more inclusive workforce that benefits individuals, businesses, and society as a whole. 

Find out more  

If you are interested in exploring Fair Chance hiring and developing diverse talent pipelines, get in touch. Our expertise in talent acquisition strategies can help you build an inclusive workforce and achieve measurable benefits for your business.  

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your hiring needs and contribute to a more equitable and successful future.