Chester Zoo is among several local employers opening their doors to ex-offenders as part of a new scheme aiming to cut the cycle of re-offending in the county.

Eleven ex-offenders in Cheshire have been offered a chance to make a fresh start.

The 'Fresh Start' initiative led by Dan Price, Cheshire's Police and Crime Commissioner, was launched three months ago.

Chester Zoo is one of several employers who will open their doors to ex-offenders in Cheshire to provide meaningful and sustained employment.

The Fresh Start initiative aims to place 100 ex-offenders into work before September 2026, partnering with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Probation Service and specialist provider Tempus Novo who support both the ex-offender and the business.

"Fresh Start is more than an employment programme," said PCC Dan Price.

"It is a practical way to cut crime in our County. Together with businesses, public services and our communities, we are creating sustainable career options and reshaping lives.

"When we offer a second chance, people take it, and Cheshire becomes safer, stronger and fairer for everyone."

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Since the pilot launched in September, Probation has referred more than 100 ex-offenders into the scheme and 11 individuals have now job secured positions in customer relations and warehousing in Cheshire, with a further four placements in the pipeline.

Employment, alongside stable housing and supportive relationships, is one of the most effective ways to help someone to stop re-offending.

Jamie Christon DL, Chief Executive Officer at Chester Zoo, said: "Chester Zoo is proud to have been part of the Fresh Start project from day one and in support of the work the Police and Crime Commissioner is doing.

"As a major employer in Cheshire and with a wide variety of skilled careers, we will continue to act as a gateway to jobs for those in our community ready to seek employment."

Valdemar Wawrosz and Steve Freer, co-founders of Tempus Novo, said: "This pilot offers the criminal justice system something genuinely different – a proven, practical model that reduces crime while directly supporting Cheshire businesses and the wider economy.

"Dan Price understands business and recognises a model that works. With patience, realism and a clear-long term view, this approach can be scaled sustainably across other counties."