Forward host its first ever virtual Christmas Concert

Every year, Forward hosts a festive concert to raise much needed money for our work. But with Covid preventing in-person events, this year we moved things online!

Forward’s first-ever virtual Christmas Concert was streamed live on 1st December to an audience of over 100 people. The event, hosted by film star and friend of Forward Jason Flemyng, featured inspirational client shares and exclusive performances from big names such as Dame Harriet Walter (star of Downton Abbey and Killing Eve), Jonathan Pryce (Academy Award nominee for The Two Popes and star of Game of Thrones) Griff Rhys Jones (comedian, writer, actor and TV presenter), and Chris Difford (founder and songwriter for the rock band Squeeze).

Check out some of the highlights below…

All proceeds from the event will go directly to our Connections Services in prisons. Our Connections Team supports people to improve their relationships with loved ones, such as family and friends. It has been particularly challenging year for our Connections workers and their clients, especially those in prisons, given the intense restrictions in place due to Covid.

“When you’re in prison, and you’re living in a lockdown within a lockdown, as many of our clients have been, it’s been a really difficult time. Clients have needed a lot of support around trying to connect and keep relationships alive.”

Rebecca Mistry, our Family Work Coordinator

It was a wonderful evening that has helped raise a staggering £27,060! We’re so grateful to everyone who attended, performed, or has supported in one way or another.

If you missed it, you can receive a link to the full recording of the event by donating here.