Our new Prison and Education Manager, Charlie, is ready to continue driving the growth of our education and rehabilitation programmes within the prison service.
With extensive experience across prison services, social care, education and project management, Charlie brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for making a real difference in people’s lives.
Charlie shared:
“I have worked with prisoners for over 14 years, including serving as a prison officer.
“I’ve always had a passion for supporting and up-skilling prisoners to help reduce reoffending and enable them to go on and lead meaningful lives.”
In her role with Combat2Coffee, Charlie will oversee the operations of our prison programmes and lead the delivery of our Level 2 Accredited Barista Qualification across multiple prisons. She will also play a key role in expanding our barista training programme beyond the prison system.
Alongside this, Charlie will manage our network of prison cafés which are run by staff and residents. The cafés aim to offer real-world hospitality experience, employability training and a sense of purpose through meaningful work.
Charlie first crossed paths with our founder, Nigel, in 2002 when they worked together in a prison and discovered a shared passion for rehabilitation.
She said:
“We used to go for a run during our lunch breaks.
“Through conversations, we realised we shared similar views on helping prisoners rebuild their lives.
“We later went on to work in different prisons but stayed in touch. When Nigel set up Combat2Coffee, I followed their journey and was so inspired by the growth and success.”
Now, Charlie has come full circle, returning to a shared mission she and Nigel envisioned all those years ago.
Charlie said:
“Although I loved my job as a prison officer, this role gives me the opportunity to use my management skills while making a real difference to both serving and ex-prisoners’ lives.”
“I’m excited to implement purposeful activity within prisons and upskill residents through real experience and qualifications.
“My aim is to help expand Combat2Coffee’s work by introducing our services into even more prisons.”
Outside of work, you will find Charlie keeping active by going to the gym and walking her goldador and crazy cocker spaniel. She also enjoys spending time with my family and friends.