Refresh was a Ministry of Justice-funded project delivered by Actes Trust within HMP Holme House. Developed in partnership with Middlesbrough Environment City (MEC), the project aimed to help people with convictions prepare for a successful return to the community by improving their confidence, skills and readiness for employment.

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The project combined personalised life coaching with practical, accredited training to support participants in taking positive steps towards employment and reintegration. Through one-to-one coaching, learners were encouraged to identify their goals, develop employability and enterprise skills, and build the confidence needed to move forward with their lives.

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Alongside life coaching, participants had the opportunity to complete a practical One Awards accredited Level 1 qualification in Cycle Maintenance. The training enabled learners to restore unusable bicycles to a serviceable standard while developing practical skills, problem-solving abilities and experience of working towards a recognised qualification.​​

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By combining personal development with hands-on learning, Refresh helped participants build confidence, develop transferable skills and prepare for a positive transition back into the labour market and wider society.​