Forward’s Social Impact Report 2022-23

Forward are proud to present our Social Impact Report for work conducted in 2022/23.

Our six annual impact report, it showcases our growing reach and expanding range of support, including:

• 22,000 people supported across the country, with a further 3,501 people engaged and helped through our online chat support service Reach Out, reaching and connecting the most isolated and disadvantaged groups in society;
• 7 service categories across 70 distinct projects, encompassing prison mental health and rehabilitation; community substance misuse, support for people on probation, employment, skills and employability support, recovery support, housing, and family and young people;
• With all service categories receiving consistently outstanding feedback from service users, partners, commissioners and inspectors.

As well as detailed breakdowns of each service area, you can read about a rich variety of special projects and initiatives including:

• M-PACT Gambling: we have adapted our evidence-based M-PACT programme to support children, young people and adults affected by a family member’s harmful gambling
• We have been commissioned by Kent Council Council to develop county-wide training and support for a new Lived Experience Recovery Organisation (LERO), helping people with lived experience to delivery advocacy, research and recovery support;
• The Bridges, our long-established residential rehabilitation centre has moved to new premises and is also opening its doors to women for the first time. The new facility has 18 beds with an extensive communal area for activities conducive to recovery;
• Our Prison Apprenticeship Project, part of our employment work, is a unique project from Forward that works with prisoners who are within three months of release and who are suitable for apprenticeships in hospitality.

I tried to go sober so many times and always failed…being part of this group gives me strength to be free.”

Online programme participant

Completing the sessions massively changed my life, especially with relationships, giving up my substance use entirely and providing me with support to secure employment. I’d definitely tell friends about the programme.

Change Up participant

If you have any questions please email communications@forwardtrust.org.uk.