Offenders in open and women’s prisons will now be eligible for paid work as soon as they have passed a “tough” risk assessment.

Previously, offenders were only eligible for work in the final 12 months of their prison term.

The move, which has been welcomed by penal reform campaigners, is part of a package of UK Government measures aimed at improving prison rehabilitation and reducing reoffending.

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has published analysis which confirms that release on temporary license is linked to a decline in reoffending.

Justice Secretary David Gauke said: “Broadening access to training and work opportunities is a vital part of our strategy to steer offenders away from a life of crime and ultimately keep the public safe.

“Many organisations are recognising the value of giving offenders a second chance, and we have carefully listened to their feedback before making these changes.

“I urge more businesses to join this movement and help ex-offenders turn their backs on crime for good.”

Peter Dawson, director of the Prison Reform Trust, said: “This is a welcome step in the right direction. More than three years after it was first promised, the government has finally delivered a significant shift towards the greater use of temporary release, recognising its proven benefits in terms of preparing prisoners for a crime free life.

“Prisoners, employers, families and the public at large will all benefit from these changes, building on an exceptional track record of success. There is much further to go – prisoners are serving longer sentences than ever before, and these changes will mainly benefit only the minority who have managed to get to an open prison towards the very end of their time inside. Ministers should not wait a further three years before taking the next step.”