The community welcomes people from all walks of life with a variety of experiences. There are people in addiction recovery, moving away from crime, overcoming mental health problems, or coming out of a period of unemployment or homelessness. Together, they form a strong foundation of peer-to-peer support.
Membership of the Forward Connect community is open to anyone who has received any support from The Forward Trust or select partner agencies. They must be making positive progress towards their personal goals and be in a strong enough position to access and utilise the support available. They should also have a desire to offer guidance and support to their peers within the Forward Connect network.
In some cases, we may welcome individuals who have received support from our partner organisations. They may also join if they have lived experience and have started making progress towards their personal goals, as outlined above.
While abstinence is not a requirement, members must be in control of their drug or alcohol use. This means no uncontrolled use, such as heavy drinking, daily or binge substance use, or antisocial behaviour. Anyone heavily under the influence at a Forward Connect event, activity, or meeting − whether in-person or online − may be asked to leave that session.
"When I joined The Forward Trust in January 2022, I had no idea how much my life would change and benefit from the wonderful services they offered, and how they would support me continuously.
"The help I received was extraordinary and brought me back from a very dark place. My newfound sobriety, thanks to Forward Connect, has made it possible to build bridges with family members and opened new opportunities to find worthwhile employment and to once again enjoy life.
"I have now attended three National Reunion events, where I have met new friends and reconnected with people from previous meetings. Other occasions have included litter picking, quizzes, meals out, coffee get-togethers, and I love my Friday morning face-to-face meetings. They have helped enormously in my day-to-day life as I continue to recover and build a happy, bright future for myself and my family.
"I have no doubt whatsoever that without Forward Connect's support I would have continued to struggle without confidence and hope."
Sarah , Forward Connect Member
Forward Connect can help people to stay connected and engaged. Everyone receives empowering resources including:
A bi-monthly Forward Connect newsletter with updates, stories, and real-life content from members.
Regular issues of our client-led magazine, 'The Journey', featuring personal stories, poetry, artwork, event and activity updates.
Invitations to The Forward Trust reunions, activities, and events, helping members to stay involved and build connections.
Peer support meetings in-person and online, both nationally and locally.
Opportunities to give back and volunteer in the local community.
Access to The Forward Trust app, to post content and message other Forward Connect members across the UK.
Opportunities to engage in creative, sports, and games-based activities and events such as football tournaments, art groups, gallery visits, swimming, chess, and more.
If your area doesn’t currently have a Forward Connect network, we can support service users who are interested in setting one up. Email forwardconnect@forwardtrust.org.uk.
If you’re interested in joining Forward Connect or want to learn more, fill in this form or email us at forwardconnect@forwardtrust.org.uk.
If you’re currently receiving treatment through a Forward service you can also speak to your Forward keyworker, who can help complete a referral on your behalf.
