The Forgiveness Project is a UK-based charitable organisation which explores forgiveness, reconciliation and conflict resolution through real-life human experience. Many of those whose voices are celebrated in our exhibition and on this website, also share their stories in person. We work in prisons, schools, faith communities, and with any group who want to explore the nature of forgiveness whether in the wider political context or within their own lives
Vision:
To build a better future by healing the wounds of the past.
Mission
To open up a dialogue about forgiveness and promote understanding through awareness, education and inspiration.
Aims:
- Awareness – raise the debate by collecting and sharing personal stories (and images)
- Education – encourage and empower people to explore the nature of forgiveness and alternatives to conflict and revenge
- Inspiration – engage civil society, as well as transform hearts and minds
ACTIVITIES
Exhibition and Story Collection
Personal stories of reconciliation and renewal are at the heart of The Forgiveness Project and are central to its aims. The Project has already collected over 60 personal stories since its launch, and many people who share their stories are part of our Speaker’s Bureau. Some of these stories make up our acclaimed exhibition, The F Word which has travelled widely and has been staged at over 300 venues worldwide. For more information about how to hire the exhibit download the Exhibition Information Pack (151.08KB)
Prison Education
Our workshop programme runs in a number of UK prisons and provides the opportunity for prisoners to address the harm they have caused and, most importantly, to explore the relationship between themselves as victims and the victims of their crimes. With an emphasis on Restorative Justice, the workshops include and use real stories from victims, films, life-line exercises and small group work.
School Education
The Forgiveness Project has been invited into a number of schools to take part in seminars and conferences. We have used these opportunities to exhibit The F Word, talk about the vision of the project and its work, and have the stories told in person by members of the Speakers Bureau. The charity has produced DVDs and written materials/resources for teachers to use in schools. By summer 2009 we will have developed a workshop model to train teachers to present The Forgiveness Project workshops in schools.
Events and Collaborations
The Forgiveness Project is frequently asked to take part in conferences and seminars looking at alternatives to violence. The charity has also featured in many radio and television programmes, including the Oprah Show and Coronation Street and, four ‘3 Minute Wonder’ films were made in association with Channel 4. The Award winning playwright Shelagh Stevenson has also written a play inspired by The F Word called The Long Road.
If you would like to hire The F Word Exhibition or book speakers, info@theforgivenessproject.com
The Forgiveness Project was founded by Marina Cantacuzino.