01 Jun 2026
The Canol service launches today (1 June) across Cwm Taf Morgannwg and Cardiff and the Vale – with Forward supporting prisoners at HMP Cardiff, HMP Usk and HMP Prescoed.
Headed by G4S Community as the lead provider, Forward will join this exciting new consortium – including Dr PA – to deliver vital psychosocial interventions for prisoners. Our work will facilitate the rehabilitation of prisoners to progress in their recovery from addiction, utilising our expertise with helping people through the transition from prison to probation, and linking individuals to any appropriate community-based recovery programmes on release.
Canol (meaning 'centre' or 'middle') builds on the success of a previous longstanding service model, Dyfodol. Over the last decade, Dyfodol has helped tens of thousands of peoople in the criminal justice system and those experiencing substance use challenges. Canol will enhance the service provision, with a commitment to ‘place the individual at the heart’ of support.
Mike Trace, CEO of The Forward Trust, said:
“The Forward Trust is proud to be part of this partnership and look forward to contributing our experience and commitment to high-quality, person-centred support.
“This collaboration represents a strong alignment of values and expertise, and I’m confident it will enable us to further strengthen outcomes for the people and communities we serve.”
Ilo Edwin, Head of Custodial Services at The Forward Trust, said
"The Canol contract reflects our strong belief in people and our commitment to delivering compassionate, high‑quality services that support recovery and lasting change. By working in partnership with the G4S, HMPPS, Commissioners and other important stakeholders and leading with trust, we are creating a service rooted in consistency, dignity and opportunity for both the people we support and the staff delivering this essential work.
"I’m thankful to all the internal Forward Trust departments for supporting the mobilisation process. Also, I'm proud of the foundations being put in place and confident this contract will make a meaningful difference from day one. "
Ben Lloyd, Director of G4S, said:
“We are so pleased to be partnering with Forward Trust to deliver the Canol service in South Wales. With their breadth of experience and their passion and vision for recovery, we believe that together our new clinical partners DrPA, we will deliver authentic and accessible opportunities for help and support to people in need. "
"We look forward to sharing more news from the Canol service in the near future."
Forward will specialise in managing Canol teams working within prison settings. Wellbeing and health practitioners will deliver a variety of psychosocial interventions and support to those living with drug and alcohol needs in HMP Cardiff and HMP Usk and HMP Prescoed. The teams will ensure service fluidity, supporting the transition journey from the secure estate back to community setting.
