Employers were praised for giving inmates a helping hand back into society at a presentation evening last night.

Companies and organisations from across the Island were awarded certificates in 'Recognition and Appreciation' for taking on recently released prisoners and those on parole.

The Transitional Living Center (TLC) was the first programme in Government's Alternatives to Incarceration (ATI) initiative in 2001, and works to help offenders make a successful transition from prison to community life. The scheme is a partnership between the Department of Corrections and Liberty Behavioral Health Corporation, and aims to provide a supportive residential environment and stable employment.

Sharon Swan, TLC executive director, said: "Our motto is 'working for change from within'. The programme improves inmates' self-worth and their sense of responsibility, and they feel wanted and accepted by the community.

"Also, with the money they earn they are able to pay outstanding bills, contribute to their families and pay rent."

In the past seven years, more than 90 employers have taken part in the programme. Up to 12 inmates are able to enrol on the residential scheme at any one time, living in a house on the grounds of Westgate.

Mrs. Swan said that although the scheme was open to inmates on parole and those approaching their earliest release date, it was usually the men on parole who benefited most.

She added: "The employers are the unsung heroes of the programme."

Last night former inmates gave testimonials of how the TLC scheme has helped them. Guests at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute were also entertained with music and refreshments.

Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing, Senator David Burch, praised the programme in his closing remarks.

He said: "I'm very grateful to the employers for helping out all the inmates.

"The success of Alternatives to Incarceration has not been how we envisaged. It's had some bumps in the road but you can't convince me it is not something we should still continue to do. I believe if a programme is able to save one person then it's worth it.

"I'm very pleased with the progress and success of TLC and I'm particularly pleased by the support of employers."

One of the TLC 'graduates', a 64-year-old former inmate, told The Royal Gazette how the scheme has helped him to get his life back. The man, who did not wish to be named, has been employed full-time since the Spring in a management role at a gas station.

"I've been in and out of jail all my life, all for alcohol-related offences," he said.

"TLC is an excellent scheme, it's the best thing that ever happened to the Island. You learn how to control your money and to budget, and how to control yourself and not get into trouble.

"All that has become a reality for me. But it all has to come from within."