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Duration: 50 minutes

The Clink is a restaurant with a difference. The menu may sound mouthwatering, but the paying customers at this classy establishment tuck into their crab, lobster and coq au vin knowing that most of the staff are convicted criminals.

This unique and controversial rehabilitation scheme, set within the walls of HMP High Down Prison, aims to transform prisoners into fully trained chefs and waiters.

The film follows fiery head chef Al as he employs three new inmates who are struggling to change their lives and turn their backs on crime.

Last on

Sat 21 May 2011 01:40 BBC One Northern Ireland only

  • Zero tolerance

    Zero tolerance

    Al Crisci has a strict zero tolerance policy within his restaurant, 'I can't have anarchy, I've got 18 prisoners working in here. Prisoners get one chance in here and if they mess up they're out'.

  • The Clink restaurant

    The Clink restaurant

    The chairs in the Clink restaurant were made by prisoners. The restaurant is funded by charity.

  • Kitchen work and qualifications

    The Clink offers the most sought after jobs in the jail. Prisoners get paid £14.70 for a five day working week.

    25% of prisoners who come to jail have no qualifications. The Clink offers prisoners the chance to gain food preparation, food service and cleaning qualifications. It also gives them experience within a commerical restaurant and guidance to help them find full time employment within the hospitality industry upon release.

  • BBC Food Blog

    BBC Food Blog

    Find out why the prison restaurant serves more than just bread, water and porridge.

    Read Al Crisci's blog

Credits

Narrator
Idris Elba
Director
Jamie Berry
Producer
Jamie Berry
Executive Producer
Pete Lawrence

Broadcasts

See all broadcasts of The Prison Restaurant (4)

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