Marie Skuce spent yesterday “in prison”… though not quite in the way you might think.
Instead of serving time, she was serving up connections—over a Full English breakfast—inside the remarkable surroundings of The Clink Restaurant at HMP Brixton, housed within the historic Governor’s House dating back to 1819.
Women in Property South East, in partnership with The Chartered Surveyors’ Company, hosted an unforgettable morning that brought together nearly 80 professionals spanning seven decades. From the moment guests passed through the security gates of a Category C prison, it was clear this was no ordinary networking event.
And then came breakfast.
Cooked and served by inmates as part of The Clink Restaurant programme, attendees enjoyed a hearty spread complete with orange juice and coffee—delivered with professionalism, pride, and purpose. Set within the characterful walls of the original Governor’s House, the venue itself added a rich sense of history to an already unique experience.
A Setting That Changes Perspectives
Navigating security checks and entering an operational prison created an atmosphere unlike any traditional networking venue. The striking contrast between the historic building and its modern-day role in rehabilitation sparked thoughtful conversations and fresh perspectives throughout the morning.
Guests heard firsthand from Donna-Marie Edmonds, CEO of The Clink Charity, whose passion for the organisation’s mission was clear. Since its founding in 2009, The Clink has become one of the UK’s leading prison rehabilitation charities, providing training in hospitality, catering, and horticulture, alongside mentoring and employment support on release.
Changing Lives, One Skill at a Time
The impact of The Clink’s work is not just inspiring—it’s measurable.
While around 45% of adults released from prison in the UK reoffend within a year, participation in The Clink’s programmes has been shown to reduce reoffending by more than 40%. By equipping individuals with practical skills, confidence, and clear pathways into employment, the charity is helping to break the cycle and build brighter futures.
A Distinguished Guest List
The event also welcomed a number of notable attendees, including Master Surveyor David Jinks and Master Architect Christopher Bicknell, alongside Masters from several other Livery Companies. Guests were also delighted to be joined by Kevin McGrath OBE DL, co-founder of The Clink Charity, adding further insight into the initiative’s origins and impact.
More Than Just a Networking Event
This wasn’t just another breakfast—it was an experience that combined connection, history, and meaningful social impact.
Events like this remind us that sometimes the most powerful conversations—and the most memorable mornings—happen in the most unexpected places.