Forests with Impact, an award-winning, industry-led social enterprise, has officially launched at HMP Haverigg in Cumbria, setting a new standard in social and environmental impact by creating commercial tree nurseries within the UK prison system. This pioneering programme tackles two of society’s biggest challenges – supporting prisoner rehabilitation and addressing the climate emergency.
The launch event brought together industry leaders, community stakeholders, and representatives from HMP Haverigg, uniting around a shared vision of sustainability, rehabilitation, and positive social change. Forests with Impact is not only transforming lives by providing prisoners with horticultural skills and those required by local industry, whilst giving hope, pride, and purpose, but is also creating a pathway to employment upon release. The programme breaks down societal barriers and redefines perceptions about the potential of rehabilitation, all while contributing to the UK’s biodiversity and tree-planting goals.
The programme has already achieved significant milestones, with two operational polytunnels, one inside the prison and one outside, and over 250,000 saplings currently growing. Prisoners at HMP Haverigg are paid either national minimum wage and training wages by Forests With Impact and are working towards horticultural qualifications, supported by industry experts who coach and mentor them. By giving skills in an industry known for its low barriers to entry for ex-prisoners, Forests with Impact gives prisoners hope and practical skills, helping to break the cycle of reoffending.
Geraint Richards MVO FICFor, Institute President and Head Forester to the Duchy of Cornwall and to His Majesty The King, is an
Ambassador for Forests with Impact and attended the launch event on 15 November at HMP Haverigg. Geraint expressed his admiration for the way the collaboration is making change possible:
“Forests with Impact addresses a number of urgent issues, from the climate and biodiversity crises to the skills shortage in forestry. This partnership can create real, lasting change within prison walls and far beyond. I am thrilled to be part of this inspiring programme.”
Forests with Impact is led by a collaboration of over 28 partners who lend their expertise, resources, and commitment to ensure its success. These partners include industry giants, household names, government backed companies, through to micro and community stakeholders who are united by a shared mission to drive social and environmental change.
With support from the Forestry Commission and Defra-backed grants, Forests with Impact is poised for rapid growth. The social enterprise plans to establish polytunnels across UK prisons, creating millions of saplings over the next decade and generating careers for prisoners. This programme not only supports the UK government’s tree-planting targets but also contributes to local employment and biodiversity.
