05 Dec 2025
We are delighted to announce that our much-loved annual event, The Forward Trust National Reunion, with return on Saturday 24 January 2026, 11am - 4pm. This is a special occasion when our entire Forward community comes together: clients, graduates, alumni, staff, volunteers, peer mentors, family members, and friends. Whether you have walked the path of recovery, supported someone who has, or are simply interested in what we do, you are warmly invited to join us.
The National Reunion is more than just an event; it’s a celebration. It brings together people from across the UK who have been through various parts of the Forward journey: recovery from addiction, rehabilitation, resettlement, peer support, employment services, housing, mental-health support, and more. Over the years, it has become a vital opportunity to celebrate achievements, reconnect with old friends, build community, share stories, and reflect on our shared journey forward.
Each Reunion offers a warm, inclusive, family-friendly space. People travel from hubs all over the country, thanks to the free coach travel offered from our regional centres — making sure that physical distance does not stop anyone from joining in.
Based on the format and highlights of recent years, attendees at the 2026 Reunion can look forward to a rich, uplifting, and meaningful programme:
Inspiring lived-experience shares and stage talks: Individuals from all walks of life bravely share their recovery journeys: the struggles, the turning points, and the triumphs. Their stories are often the most powerful part of the day.
Open-mic, creative performances & entertainment: Music, poetry, performances, sometimes surprise acts or artistic showcases. Previous Reunions have included singing, acoustic sets, and even more informal creative expressions.
Crafts, workshops & creative activities: From bracelet-making to arts & crafts or other creative stalls, there’s an emphasis on inclusion, expression and connection.
Information stalls & opportunities to connect: Representatives from Forward’s services and partner agencies will be there, including addiction and recovery support, housing, employment, peer-led community (such as Forward Connect), and more. It’s a great space to learn, ask questions, and find support or connection.
Food, refreshments, social mingling: A relaxed, welcoming environment: free refreshments, lunch, snacks, and the chance to connect, chat, and build friendships. Many attendees say such moments are among their favourites.
Everyone connected to Forward is welcome, including:
Clients (past or present).
Graduates and alumni of our programmes.
Members of Forward Connect and peer-led communities.
Staff, volunteers, peer mentors.
Family members, friends and loved ones.
Anyone interested in learning more about recovery, rehabilitation, and our work.
Full details of the date, venue, schedule and registration will be shared soon. In previous years, the Reunion has taken place in London with free registration, and we’ve provided coach travel from many of our regional hubs to ensure accessibility from across the UK.
If you need support with travel, let us know early so we can help arrange transport from a hub near you.
