14.01.2026

Procure Plus’s Keeley Danson appointed Chair of HMP Styal’s Employment Advisory Board

Keeley Danson from Procure Plus has been appointed Chair of HMP Styal's Employment Advisory Board (EAB), marking a significant next step in strengthening employment pathways for women in the justice system.

The Employment Advisory Board plays a vital role in supporting women to prepare for life beyond prison by shaping pathways into employment.

This includes training and development that helps build skills, confidence, and practical work experience – also helping to reduce reoffending and improve long-term outcomes.

Danson was first appointed to the board in March 2025 and has since worked closely with the prison, employers, and industry leaders to expand training opportunities and open up new career prospects for women in the justice system.

In her new role as Chair, she will provide strategic leadership to ensure the board continues to respond while addressing the specific barriers faced by women leaving custody.

Procure Plus has already made a lasting impact at HMP Styal through the development of the first construction training hub in the women’s prison estate. The initiative has opened doors to training, qualifications, and careers in an industry where women have traditionally been underrepresented.

“For too many women, release from prison comes with additional challenges and limited opportunities – but secure employment can be a strong foundation for long-term sustainability,” said Danson.

“As Chair, I’m looking forward to building on the great work that is already underway by continuing to challenge inequalities within the labour market and driving more employer engagement.”

Lauren Nolan, Prison Employment Lead at HMP Styal, said: “Keeley has already made a significant contribution to the Employment Advisory Board and her appointment as Chair is fantastic news for HMP Styal. Her insight and passion for improving outcomes for women will help us to go further in preparing women for employment and independence on release.”

Gwen Beeken, Managing Lead at Procure Plus, added: “At Procure Plus, we believe access to opportunities should never be limited by circumstance and we’re committed to helping to those who are often overlooked.

“Under Keeley’s leadership, we have no doubt she will continue to drive meaningful change by ensuring employment support genuinely reflects women’s needs and potential.”

As a not-for-profit organisation, Procure Plus reinvests any surplus generated directly into communities, helping those distanced from the employment market.

Posted by: FMJ 0 comment(s)