The New Leaf Network

The New Leaf Network was created through collaboration between individuals and organisations with lived experience of the Criminal Justice System, with network members sharing their vision to support both returning citizens and organisations following release from prison. The network aims to address current sector shortfalls identified including: Accessible support for former prisoners Collaborative working and referral routes in the CJS community Person-centred support embedded into networks that feed into CJS policy Business networks and opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses with leaders with lived experience, operating as a consortium “The network is about people with lived experience of the Criminal Justice System being supported to develop personally and professionally. The idea was born from study I conducted in 2019 which identified that support is lacking for both individuals and professionals with convictions” – Marie-Claire O’Brien (CEO/Founder of The New Leaf Initiative C.I.C.) To formally recognise its formation the New Leaf Network launched the first annual Leaders with Lived Experience (LLEx) CJS Conference and Awards ceremony in December 2020, for people with lived experience, specifically recognising outstanding individuals and organisations, alongside allies in the sector.