Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner visited Key Changes in Sheffield on Thursday, 16 July to hear about the work they do in the rehabilitation of women released from prison.

Key Changes based in Sheffield, offers a number of ways to help women build their confidence, become sustainable and develop skills to gain further employment.

The Commissioner received a tour of the premises, located above shops on Elm Lane by Managing Director Michelle Nicholson. He was shown the fully operational What Women Want Hair and Beauty Salon where the women are trained in hair-styling and beauty therapy. The salon is open to the general public and already receives a number of customers from the local community.

He said: “Key Changes are unique in their approach. They help women gain confidence and train in a profession that will provide them future employment.

“Today I have heard how the organisation provides life-skills, mentoring and training to allow former offenders to earn their own money, make friends and find their way back into the community.

“I wish them all the best for their future plans and welcome their commitment and innovative ideas.”

Key Changes is a mentoring and education presentations scheme supporting women in the criminal justice system. They offer practical and emotional support to former female offenders. Many of their service-users have been victims of physical or sexual violence. They offer support to these women and help them understand that there are others experiencing similar circumstances. Volunteer mentors encourage women released from prison opportunities to go into training, employment or education.

Michelle Nicholson, Managing Director of Key Changes said: “I would like to thank Dr Billings for taking the time to come and visit the training salon and mentoring services today.

“Here at Key Changes, we are constantly looking for innovative ways of helping women released from the criminal justice system, better themselves, gain employment and find their own confidence.

If you would like more information on the services offered at the What Women Want Beauty Salon you can call 0114 245 8600 or visit their website on www.whatwomenwanthairbeauty.co.uk