WEST Mercia probation service has clinched a £2.4m grant to improve links between prisoners and the community.

The European Social Fund cash, to be spread over two years, will be ploughed into strengthening the relationship between offenders and their own communities in both the West Mercia and West Midlands region.

The project, called Connect, aims to improve the employability of short-term prisoners once they have been released.

Claudia Lewis-Moore, who is leading the Connect project, said she was hoping to secure a further £1.3m in funding.

"The provision of employment is crucial to reducing the risk of re-offending," said Ms Lewis-Moore, assistant chief officer of West Mercia probation service.

"Many prisoners on release are not 'job ready' as they may lack the necessary skills and confidence to secure and keep employment."

She added that a network of mentors in prisons would act as a bridge between inmates and the community.

"The project aims to direct beneficiaries to appropriate support in the community, building on the knowledge and information gained while they are in custody," she said.