An award-winning social enterprise has launched a pioneering programme at a Cumbrian prison.

Forests with Impact has set up commercial tree nurseries at HMP Haverigg, aiming to support prisoner rehabilitation and address the climate emergency.

(Image: Forests With Impact) The initiative provides prisoners with horticultural skills and a pathway to employment upon release, while contributing to the UK's biodiversity and tree-planting goals.

The programme has already established two operational polytunnels and is nurturing more than 250,000 saplings.

(Image: Forests With Impact) Prisoners are paid either national minimum wage or training wages by Forests with Impact and are working towards horticultural qualifications.

Raphael Rowe, Netflix documentary maker, former prisoner, and ambassador for Forests with Impact, said: "Forests with Impact shows what’s possible when we invest in people and give them a second chance.

(Image: Forests With Impact) "This programme is more than rehabilitation, it’s a movement for change."

The initiative is backed by more than 26 partners, including industry giants and government-backed companies.

(Image: Forests With Impact) Mark Keily, director of health, safety, and sustainability at Sunbelt Rentals, said: "As a founding partner of Forests with Impact, we’re committed to driving meaningful and systemic change by providing upskilling and employment opportunities, aligned with our long-term sustainability strategy."

The programme is supported by the Forestry Commission and DEFRA-backed grants, and plans to establish polytunnels across UK prisons, creating millions of saplings over the next decade and generating careers for prisoners.

(Image: Forests With Impact) Sarah MacGregor, programme founder and lead at Forests with Impact and head of social sustainability at Sunbelt Rentals, said: "We couldn’t have reached this milestone without the dedication of our partners.

"Together, we’re tackling the climate emergency, supporting prisoner rehabilitation, and boosting community skills.

(Image: Forests With Impact) "Forests with Impact is about building a better future for everyone."

The launch event was supported by Arena Group, who donated a marquee and provided prisoners with valuable experience in event management.

(Image: Forests With Impact)