What we do

Working together towards a brighter future

It’s easy to judge others without seeing the full picture. We’re all shaped by our upbringing, environment and people around us to some extent. These experiences can lead some people to prison or community sentences.

1 in 3 men and 1 in 10 women in Scotland have a criminal record.

They’re not just another statistic in the justice system. They’re friends, colleagues and family members.

We work holistically with people to change their lives. Equipped with new skills and a fresh perspective, they can reach a positive end goal with our help.

Our aims include reducing reoffending, tackling deprivation and making communities safer.

Finding the right help

Our training courses are available in towns and cities across Scotland. Where we don’t currently provide support, we’ll always do our best to signpost people to other organisations to help them on their journey.

People with experience of the justice system and those at risk of committing offences benefit from our non-judgemental approach. All our work is supported by six key pillars and a positive, hopeful outlook.

Our Pillars

Empowering people

Every journey is unique. From building self-esteem after conviction to helping people register with healthcare providers and attend appointments, our knowledge and support are tailored to suit.

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Ensuring wellbeing

Building a brighter future is easier when our physical and emotional health are aligned and in a good place. We work with people at their own pace, providing the right tools to instil confidence and calmness so they can flourish.

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Equipping people

Many people want to turn their lives around after prison or serving a community sentence but lack what they need to move forward. Our vital services cover literacy, numeracy and other essential life skills.

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Bridging gaps

People can only get help if they know where to turn to. We provide a pathway to addiction support, conversations with social workers and understanding processes and terminology.

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Continual learning

This involves discussing job options with a conviction and the route to gaining qualifications for chosen career paths. We can also signpost people to other organisations best suited to help.

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Employment support

Many people want to turn their lives around after prison or serving a community sentence but lack what they need to move forward. Our vital services cover literacy, numeracy and other essential life skills.

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I have been working with Apex Scotland for 6 months I can’t believe how my life is changed and so much better now. For the first time in a long time I have good in my life.

Anonymous, Participant

Can I just share with you that this young person has been heavily institutionalised and has been in and out of prison since the age of 16. He has been supported by Apex Scotland into a full-time job. He has personally told me that this support has been life changing.

Suzy Rook,
Justice Prison & Throughcare West

I was unsure about when I should tell employers about my conviction. I didn’t really want to talk about it, working with Apex Scotland helped me to be able to talk about it and know exactly what I needed to tell employers.

Anonymous, Participant