So, I've been on this forum for a week or two, but it's clear that there simply isn't enough critical mass to generate discussion.

It is important to feed back to the charity that this forum does not provide a positive experience for reformed offenders, or at least this one. I am aware of the historical issues, but actually I do not think that is the problem. The charity's attitude to this asset is poor. In particular, the responses to posts (from the charity), when not completely factual, have had a dismissive, irritable, self-important, and patronising tone. There is a lack of engagement with real issues that are affecting your end-users. No doubt you are working on many things (including 'better solutions' that you mention in a recently locked post), but you fail to communicate them via any of your channels (The Record hasn't been updated for two months, and pithy 140 character tweets are a cop-out). Do you know that you just broke the 2000 member mark? What an achievement! - but what a contrast to how you celebrated similar milestones in the past. No welcomes to new users and no responses to helpful posts. You hide individuals behind an impersonal moniker ('The Unlock Helpline' - I've used similar tactics myself when I've been avoidant).

You may wish to blame others or scapegoat for the lack of engagement here, but ultimately the forum is reflecting the tone and direction of the charity and the responsibility is yours. I recently re-read Ian's parting shot, and he was right on the button.

The reason I am writing this is no to undermine you, but to communicate my frustration. What a shame you are not cultivating this better, given that this is an established technological resource most organisations would die for. You have the opportunity to promote grass-roots support. Of course you are small, of course there are resourcing and time issues, but the biggest sadness for me is that, compared to two years ago, you seem to have disconnected from the very people you aim to help, and who would be willing to help.