The Clean Slate initiative includes the opening of a roastery and packaging facility within the prison, where up to ten prisoners will be employed to grind, roast and package Combat2Coffee’s blend using sustainably sourced coffee beans from two family farms in Brazil.
The initiative also includes the opening of a new café, staffed by prisoners and supported by Sodexo staff, providing food and drink for prison staff and visitors. Sodexo is looking to have up to 40 individuals gain around 100 qualifications collectively.
Tony Simpson, chief operating officer for Sodexo – Justice, said: “This is an exciting initiative for everyone at HMP Altcourse. We have seen the impact Combat2Coffee has had within our defence business and are pleased to be able to expand it into our prisons.
“By introducing a coffee roastery and packaging facility within the prison as well as the opening of a new café, we are supporting our Starting Fresh programme which aims to provide prison leavers with the skills and confidence to secure employment upon release.
“Also, in a busy prison work environment, the new Clean Slate café supports our commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of our people with the provision of a great space where they can refresh and connect with colleagues.”
The coffee will be sold in the prison to prisoners, staff and visitors with plans to distribute the coffee to other Sodexo sites within its Government and Energy & Resources business including other prisons and military sites.
Nigel Seaman, founder and chief executive of Combat2Coffee, added: "This partnership with Sodexo marks a powerful step forward for Combat2Coffee and for rehabilitation through purposeful work. This innovative project will provide hands-on training in coffee roasting, grinding, and packaging, equipping participants with valuable skills and real work experience.
“The aim is simple: to create meaningful employment and rehabilitation opportunities, particularly for veterans in custody. This is a chance for people to rebuild their confidence, gain real qualifications, and prepare for meaningful employment after release. It’s about more than coffee; it’s about wellbeing, second chances, and showing how business and social impact can go hand in hand."