This document explains how we developed The Forest. It describes:
How we developed the Forest with co-design methods.
The Forest co-design report [PDF 2.9 MB]The Forest is a place-based organisation whose vision is to empower people who have been in prison and who use drugs to gain stability, connection and ultimately be an integrated part of their community. We do this by creating a place where people can choose from a range of offerings that contribute to the needs of a whole, balanced person. This includes having:
The human and financial cost of the reincarceration of people who use drugs far outweighs the investment put into post-incarceration transition efforts. With numbers of incarcerated people growing, current responses are unsustainable and must be urgently addressed.
For over 2 years, we have worked with a group of professional and lived experience experts and used best practice co-design methods that go far beyond traditional and simplistic modes of consultation.
The Forest is a place-based organisation that brings together:
All of these are delivered via a peer mentoring approach.
The Forest was designed by those with first-hand experience of how the existing post-prison landscape has failed those who use drugs. It is unique in its focus, approach and the potential of its impact.