Hotels and conference centres are normally the preferred venues for business or networking events.

But recruitment agency Anne Corder Recruitment (ACR) is sponsoring a networking date with a difference in a landmark event to bring local businesses together.

ACR is helping to promote the ‘Thinking Outside The Box’ networking lunch hosted at HMP Peterborough, organised by the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce.

HMP Peterborough currently works with businesses to recruit ex-offenders and support their rehabilitation, and the event will present company bosses and HR representatives with a unique chance to visit the prison and hear first-hand the benefits of doing so.

Speakers from companies that have recruited ex-offenders will share their experience, and staff at the prison itself will give attendees knowledge and background of the process.

The event takes place on March 1 - and lunch will be served to the delegates, assisted by inmates.

Nel Woolcott, ACR managing director (pictured) said: “This is very much a landmark event; businesses working collaboratively to break down barriers and stigmas and to look at some of the recruitment challenges we all face locally and regionally.

“We are very excited to be sponsoring this event, which will inevitably showcase some fascinating talks and interesting debates while focussing on getting some of those who society may deem as unemployable back into the world of work.”

For more details about the event and how to get involved, visit Thinking Outside the Box (networkreach.com)