BOOK HERE! Frequently visited pages: COMMUNITY HUBS VOLUNTEER ADVICE YOUTH SUPPORT FVAF কি? এফভিএএফ মানে ফরেস্ট ভলান্টারি অ্যাকশন ফোরাম। আমরা স্থানীয় নাগরিকদের, সম্প্রদায়ের গোষ্ঠীগুলিকে এবং তাদের কাছে সবচেয়ে গুরুত্বপূর্ণ জিনিসগুলি করতে সহায়তা প্রদান করি। এর মধ্যে নিম্নলিখিতগুলি অন্তর্ভুক্ত রয়েছে: সমর্থন এবং উন্নয়ন পরামর্শ প্রশিক্ষণ তথ্য নেটওয়ার্কিং মিটিং প্রতিনিধিত্ব সহজতর স্বেচ্ছাসেবক নিয়োগ স্বেচ্ছাসেবক বসানো এবং সমর্থন আমরা স্থানীয় সম্প্রদায়ের সাথে এবং তাদের জন্য অনেক প্রকল্পও চালাই, যেমন ফরেস্ট অফ ডিন ইয়ুথ অ্যাসোসিয়েশন, হলিডে অ্যাক্টিভিটি ক্যাম্পেইনস, দ্য ফরেস্ট ইয়ুথ মিউজিক নেটওয়ার্ক, দ্য জিইএম প্রোজেক্ট, দ্য ফরেস্ট কম্পাস ডিরেক্টরি, চাকার সাথে হাঁটা এবং আরও অনেক কিছু। সম্পূর্ণ বিবরণের জন্য আমাদের প্রকল্প পৃষ্ঠা দেখুন. "এতে শক্তিশালী সম্প্রদায় গড়ে তোলা ডিনের বন" আরও খোঁজ JOIN OUR MAILING LIST Get the latest community news and check out exciting volunteering opportunity in or around the Forest of Dean... ফেসবুকে যাও Useful publications: FREE directory of the many volunteering opportunities available locally... DOWNLOAD আমাদের অংশীদারদের We work with so many amazing and supportive partners. Find out more here... How to contact us Forest Voluntary Action Forum Ow Bist Forest Community Space Dockham Road Cinderford , Glos. GL14 2AQ Email us: contact@fvaf.org.uk Tel: 01594 822073 Copyright © 2021 Forest Voluntary Action Forum. All Rights Reserved. Forest Voluntary Action Forum is a charity (1141126) and company limited by guarantee (07557852) registered in England and Wales. The registered address is The Belle Vue Centre, Cinderford, Glos, GL14 2AB. Travelling in the Forest of Dean Forest Of Dean Climate Action Partnership has created a handy interactive guide to travelling in the Forest of Dean. DOWNLOAD HERE

Join us for the FVAF Community Celebration & AGM 2026 - a day of festivities, important discussions, and community connection! We’ll start with our Annual General Meeting (AGM), then you’ll hear how FVAF has made a difference over the past year through our 4 Ps: People, Place, Planet and Prosperity, along with our plans for the year ahead. After the AGM, come and explore the Newent Showcase, a market of local community groups and organisations that make Newent special. It’s a great chance to meet the people behind them, find out what’s happening locally, and connect with other community members. Refreshments and a delicious buffet lunch, sourced from local delis and caterers, will be provided. EVERYONE WELCOME! DOORS OPEN AT 10AM FOR COFFEE & CATCH UP! Places are limited, so please book your ticket as soon as possible to secure your spot. BOOK HERE!

Role:Place Partnership Lead – Building Connections Salary: £36,000 – £45,000 (pro rata for part-time/job share) Hours: Up to 37.5 hours per week (job share or part-time hours considered) Contract: Fixed Term until 31st August 2029 with extension dependent on funding and performance Location: Cinderford and Mitcheldean, with travel across the wider Forest of Dean Do you build trust easily, love bringing people together, and want to help shape stronger, more connected communities in the Forest of Dean? We're looking for a passionate and proactive Place Partnership Lead to help local organisations, community buildings, volunteers and residents in Cinderford and Mitcheldean come together to collaborate, connect, and thrive. The Role Build and maintain positive relationships with community buildings, resident groups, parish councils, VCSE organisations and statutory partners across Cinderford and Mitcheldean. Convene and facilitate place-based partnership meetings, forums and collaborative networks. Support community buildings to develop governance, leadership and community engagement, helping them move towards a community-owned Hub model. Work alongside residents and volunteers to ensure local people shape plans, activities and decisions, particularly those experiencing loneliness or isolation. Support the design, promotion and administration of Community Chest funding, helping local groups develop ideas and applications. Capture learning and share examples of good practice across the Forest of Dean and wider partnership networks. Who We're Looking For Experience of partnership development, community development, community engagement or stakeholder management. A proven ability to build productive relationships across multiple sectors and communities. Confidence facilitating meetings, groups, networks or collaborative projects. Strong communication, interpersonal and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities. An understanding of loneliness and social isolation, and of co-production or asset-based community development approaches. A collaborative, empowering and community-centred approach, and a genuine commitment to inclusion and equity. JOB DESCRIPTION: Place Partnership Lead – Building Connections FVAF JOB APPLICATION FORM HOW TO APPLY Please read the above full job description and download the application form. Please note CVs will not be accepted. Email completed application forms to Chris Brown at ceo@fvaf.org.uk Application deadline: Wednesday 26th August Interview date: Wednesday 9th September For an informal discussion about this role contact Chris Brown at ceo@fvaf.org.uk .

Recovery & Wellbeing Café “A Community Created Curriculum of Curious Conversations” Weekly Face-to-Face Discussions & Recovery Educational Sessions Each Wednesday (Term Time) at Café 16 in Coleford from 6-8pm. “A safe space to create who you are, not be told what to think.” Join conversations with a diverse range of people with professional & lived experience of different subjects, local people who have gained understandings about the impact current concerns have upon mental health, recovery and wellbeing. We are building a supportive space where, as critical friends, we can learn together and support each other with our individual understandings. All curious & compassionate folk welcome.

Share Your Vision for the Forest of Dean – New Online Ways to Join the Conversation Have your say on the Forest's future – including potential UNESCO Biosphere designation. Residents across the Forest of Dean can now take part in shaping the area's future, from the comfort of their own home, with new online platforms that have just launched as part of a major community engagement project. Forest of Dean District Council has commissioned Wylderne to explore what the future could look like for this distinctive working Forest – including the possibility of UNESCO Biosphere designation – and everyone is invited to have their say. We've been supporting Wylderne with reaching the community and we're excited to launch 2 new digital opportunities to make it easier for everyone to contribute. Open to the whole community, residents can join facilitated video discussions in AI-Moderated Video Chat Rooms. A text-Based conversation platform is also being used to allow people to share thoughts and ideas through online discussion forums AI-Moderated Video Chat Room - sign up HERE Text Based conversation - take part HERE What's it all about? Our unique landscape has created a remarkable history and culture. But what will be the next chapter for this working Forest? What could a future look like that's rooted in our beautiful landscape and the stories that have forged our local identity? As part of these conversations, we'll also explore whether becoming a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve could help bring out the potential we know is here. A Biosphere is a place where communities learn how to protect biodiversity AND develop sustainably – finding local solutions to global challenges. But this is a genuine conversation about possibilities, not a done deal. We want to hear from YOU We're using an innovative approach that starts by asking what you value and treasure about the Forest. What stories make you proud? What are our strengths? What would you like to see in our future? Visit https://www.fdean.gov.uk/forest-of-dean-s-unesco-biosphere-bid or https://www.wylderne.com/ for more information. What is a UNESCO Biosphere? There are 759 Biosphere Reserves in 136 countries, with 7 already in the UK (including North Devon, Isle of Wight, and Dyfi in Wales). They're places for innovation – where communities work out how human beings and nature can live side by side so both can thrive. Cllr Chris McFarling, who represents Sedbury and St Briavels on Forest of Dean District Council, said: "A business as usual approach has seen continued declines in species, increased development, and increased pollution of our rivers. Becoming a Biosphere will tell the international community that there is something special and unique about the natural environment and the culture of the people of the Dean." Get involved Your insights will help shape a report that will be completed in early March 2026, feeding into the potential Biosphere application and helping guide our Forest's future direction. For more information: Visit: www.wylderne.com Contact: Paul Pivcevic, 07968 472317 or Catherine Best, communications@fvaf.org.uk

KEEPING PEOPLE SAFE Young people who are moving towards adulthood have the right to make informed choices about how they connect to their local community. This can involve risk, for guidance read: Building Connections: One minute guide to Risk Assessment

কমিউনিটি বিল্ডার্স ড্রপ-ইন হাব support, advice & guidance Our drop-in hubs provide support to create, inspire and build stronger communities together. ড্রপ-ইন হাব একসাথে শক্তিশালী সম্প্রদায় তৈরি, অনুপ্রাণিত এবং গড়ে তুলতে সহায়তা প্রদান করে প্রতিটি ড্রপ-ইন হাব স্থানীয় বাসিন্দাদের জন্য বিভিন্ন ধরনের সহায়তা, পরামর্শ এবং নির্দেশনা প্রদান করে। উদাহরণ স্বরূপ; স্থানীয় পরিষেবাগুলিতে সমর্থন এবং সাইন পোস্টিং, লিঙ্ক এবং নতুন সেট আপ সম্প্রদায়ের গোষ্ঠীগুলি, লোকেদের কর্মসংস্থান বা আরও শিক্ষার কাছাকাছি যেতে সহায়তা করে, ডিজিটাল বিশ্ব অ্যাক্সেস করতে সহায়তা করে এবং সম্প্রদায়ের জন্য আপনার ধারণাগুলিকে জীবন্ত করতে সহায়তা করে। আমরা সাহায্য করতে পারি: স্বেচ্ছাসেবক সুযোগ কর্মসংস্থান সমর্থন স্থানীয় কার্যকলাপ গ্রুপ এবং ক্লাব আইটি এবং ডিজিটাল সমর্থন স্থানীয় ঘটনা তথ্য স্থানীয় পরিষেবাগুলিতে সাইন পোস্টিং Get Digital Confident! Visit our community hubs for help navigating the digital world. Whether you need help setting up your devices or simply need a bit of support with everyday online tasks, we’re here to help — free, friendly, and open to everyone. No appointment necessary! Just drop in at one of our community hubs across the Forest of Dean. FVAF is part of the Digital Inclusion Gloucestershire Initiative, tackling digital exclusion across the county. Find out more here For dates, times and locations for up coming FVAF Community Drop-in Hubs, contact Flora at flora@fvaf.org.uk or call the FVAF office on 01594 822073.

Our Team. Our head office is based in Cinderford but everyday you will meet members of the FVAF team out and about supporting the community and building strong partnerships with other local organisations and groups... Chris Brown Chief Executive Officer Nick Penny Head of Operations Deb Cook Head of Development Rachel Adams Place Partnership Lead – Building Connections Victoria Wren Volunteering & Communications Officer Catherine Best Communications & Fundraising Manager Cherry Potter-Irwin Finance & Administration Officer Fliss Simister Youth Team Manager Lisa Robertson Youth Development Officer Katy Virgo Youth Development Officer Courtney Middleton Project Coordinator Jodie Atkins Youth Support Worker Adam Lambert Youth Projects Manager Krissie Carter Neighbourhood Connector Mark Evans Neighbourhood Connector Alex Digby Community Team Manager Flora Croysdale Digital and Community Project Manager Teresa Rose Community Connectors' Facilitator Melanie Benn Community Builder Pete Harper Community Connector Piers Cardiff Forest of Dean Climate Action Partnership Coordinator Becky Moorcroft Forest of Dean Climate Action Partnership Coordinator Meet our trustees. We have a highly skilled board of trustees who meet regularly to monitor, challenge and guide what FVAF does now, and in the future. Bob Rhodes Chair of Trustees Josh Bond Vice Chair of Trustees Jonathan Gault Trustee - Treasurer Patricia Le Rolland Trustee Sid Phelps Trustee Diana Martin Trustee Rob Toomer Trustee Roger Deeks Trustee Interested in becoming a FVAF Trustee? Talk to us! Contact Chris is ceo@fvaf.org.uk 01594 822073

🌟 Forest Volunteer Awards 2026 – Celebrating Local Heroes 🌟 This year, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible individuals, groups, and organisations who go the extra mile to make the Forest of Dean a better place. Whether they’re quietly making a difference or leading bold community change, we want to hear their stories. THE CATEGORIES: 🏆 Volunteer of the Year – People's Champion This is your chance to celebrate an unsung hero. Someone who consistently goes above and beyond to support others, uplift their community, or inspire through their own journey. Their dedication may have transformed lives—or even kept vital services running. We're looking for someone who: Shows exceptional dedication and commitment to their volunteer role Has made a significant positive impact on individuals or the wider community Demonstrates reliability, compassion, and selflessness May have overcome personal challenges while helping others Goes above and beyond to support those in need ✨ This is the only award chosen by public vote! Once finalists are announced, the community will decide who takes home the title. 🌱 Young Volunteer of the Year (21 & under) Recognising a young person who's making a big impact. Whether they've overcome personal challenges or shown outstanding commitment to helping others, this award celebrates young volunteers —in schools, clubs, or community projects. We're looking for a young person who: Demonstrates exceptional commitment to volunteering despite their age Serves as a role model and inspiration to other young people Shows maturity, leadership, and dedication beyond their years May have overcome personal obstacles while helping others Actively contributes to making their school, club, or community better Examples might include: peer mentoring, fundraising champions, environmental activists, community event organisers, or young carers who also volunteer. 🤝 Grassroots Group of the Year For small, volunteer-led groups making a big difference. From lunch clubs to sports teams, support circles to hobby groups—if your local group is powered by passion and community spirit, we want to celebrate it. We're looking for groups that: Are entirely or predominantly volunteer-run Demonstrate strong community impact despite limited resources Show innovation, creativity, and resilience in their approach Foster genuine connections and belonging among members Address local needs or bring people together around shared interests Operate with transparency, inclusivity, and community spirit Examples might include: village halls committees, friendship groups, local history societies, craft circles, walking groups, or neighbourhood support networks. 🏢 Community Organisation Award Recognising larger charities, CICs, CIOs, or teams of staff and volunteers making a meaningful impact in the Forest of Dean. We celebrate organisations that: Make a real difference by creating positive, lasting change in the local community Join forces with other local groups and partners to work together effectively Stay open and accountable while encouraging active community participation Keep evolving to meet new challenges and the changing needs of the community Use resources wisely to bring the greatest possible benefits to those who need them Stay true to the mission and focus on what matters most to the Forest of Dean Champion volunteering by effectively recruiting, supporting, and valuing volunteers This award highlights established organisations with formal structures, paid staff, and a commitment to fostering and sustaining volunteer contributions. 🏢💚 Business in the Community Award Celebrating local businesses that give back. Whether through employee volunteering, project sponsorship, or hands-on community support, this award recognises businesses that are making a real social impact. We're looking for businesses that: Go beyond profit to actively contribute to community wellbeing Encourage and support employee volunteering during work time Provide meaningful sponsorship, donations, or in-kind support Partner with local charities and community groups Operate with environmental and social responsibility Demonstrate genuine, long-term commitment to the Forest of Dean Examples might include: businesses offering apprenticeships to local youth, companies supporting community events, employers giving staff volunteer days, or businesses donating skills, space, or resources. ♿ Diversity & Inclusion Award (sponsored by FoD Dementia Action Alliance) This award celebrates organisations or groups that are actively working to break down barriers and create welcoming, inclusive spaces. It's not about being perfect—it's about showing commitment to accessibility, equity, and belonging for all. We're looking for organisations that: Actively work to remove physical, social, or communication barriers Demonstrate understanding of diverse needs including disability, age, culture, and background Show ongoing commitment to improving accessibility and inclusion Provide training, support, or resources to become more inclusive Create environments where everyone feels valued and able to participate Take practical steps to accommodate different needs and abilities This could include: dementia-inclusive initiatives, wheelchair accessible improvements, sensory-friendly adaptations, multilingual support, or programmes specifically designed to welcome marginalised groups. 🌍 Community Climate Action Award (sponsored by Forest of Dean Climate Action Partnership) F or individuals or VCSE groups leading the way in environmental action. From community gardens and repair cafés to sustainable transport and flood resilience—if you're helping the Forest adapt and thrive in a changing climate, we want to hear from you. We're looking for nominees who: Take practical action to address climate change or environmental challenges Inspire and educate others about sustainable living Develop innovative solutions to local environmental issues Build community resilience to the impact of the changing climate Create lasting positive environmental change in the Forest of Dean Examples might include: renewable energy projects, sustainable food initiatives, active travel promotion, waste reduction campaigns, or climate adaptation projects. NOMINATIONS HAVE NOW CLOSED FOR 2026! See last year's winners here FAQs Who can nominate? Anyone can nominate! Whether you are an individual local resident, part of a community group or from a local government organisation. How can I nominate? It’s easy – just fill in our nomination form here or if you would prefer a paper copy you can request one via communications@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073. What information do I need to provide? Please provide plenty of detail about what the nominee has achieved and as much information as possible about them and their unique contribution. If you have any, please provide good quality photographs. Make sure that you have permission from anyone else in the photograph so that we can use it for media and promotional activities unless you tell us not to. Should I tell the person or organisation I am nominating them or keep it a surprise? Ideally it would be good to let them know once you have decided to nominate, just so that they are aware and happy for their story to be shared. We want to celebrate and shout about the wonderful work of volunteers which would include promotion via social media, on our website and to local press. How will it be judged? All nominations will be carefully considered by a panel of judges. This panel will be made up of a mix of unbiased and independent judges including; members of staff from FVAF, a FVAF trustee, and representatives from local councils, businesses and media. For more information or if you have any questions, email communications@fvaf.org.uk or call 01594 822073 .

কমিউনিটি সংযোগকারীর ফোরাম - আপনার প্যাচ নেটওয়ার্ক জানুন Supporting Strong and Thriving Communities with Know Your Patch আপনার প্যাচ জেনে শক্তিশালী এবং সমৃদ্ধ সম্প্রদায়কে সমর্থন করা কমিউনিটি সংযোগকারী ফোরাম (CCF) এর আপনার প্যাচ অংশটি জানুন স্বেচ্ছাসেবী এবং সম্প্রদায় সেক্টর, সংবিধিবদ্ধ পরিষেবা এবং স্থানীয় বাসিন্দাদের এমনভাবে সংযুক্ত করে যা কাজ করার আরও ভাল উপায় তৈরি করে। দ্য ফরেস্ট অফ ডিন নো ইওর প্যাচ নেটওয়ার্ক স্বেচ্ছাসেবী এবং সম্প্রদায় সেক্টর, সংবিধিবদ্ধ পরিষেবা এবং স্থানীয় বাসিন্দাদের সাথে এমনভাবে সংযোগ করার জন্য ডিজাইন করা হয়েছে যা কাজ করার আরও ভাল উপায় তৈরি করে যা শেষ পর্যন্ত আমাদের সম্প্রদায়গুলিকে শক্তিশালী করে। এই 'কমিউনিটি অফার' বিশেষ করে স্বাস্থ্যের চাহিদা বৃদ্ধি রোধ বা বিলম্বিত করার জন্য গুরুত্বপূর্ণ। আমরা পুরো ফরেস্ট অফ ডিন জুড়ে ত্রৈমাসিক ইভেন্টগুলি হোস্ট করি যেখানে আমরা স্টেকহোল্ডারদের তাদের সম্প্রদায়ের কী বিষয়গুলি নিয়ে আলোচনায় যোগ দিতে আমন্ত্রণ জানাই এবং কীভাবে পরিষেবা এবং স্বেচ্ছাসেবী সেক্টর গ্রুপগুলি এটিকে সহায়তা করতে পারে। প্রত্যেকটি জানুন আপনার প্যাচ ইভেন্ট বিনামূল্যে এবং যে কেউ কথোপকথনের অংশ হতে চায় তাদের জন্য উন্মুক্ত। আপনি যদি উপস্থিত হতে চান তাহলে অনুগ্রহ করে 01594 822073 নম্বরে কল করুন বা help4groups@fvaf.org.uk ইমেল করুন। ফরেস্ট অফ ডিন-এ কী ঘটছে সেই বিষয়ে আমরা আমাদের Know Your Patch Network-এ নিয়মিত ই-মেইল এবং আপডেট পাঠাই। আপনি যদি এই নেটওয়ার্কে যোগদান করতে চান তবে অনুগ্রহ করে সদস্যতা নিন এখানে থেকে তহবিল ধন্যবাদ Gloucestershire County Council , Know Your Patch Gloucestershire-এর প্রতিটি অন্য জেলাতেও উপলব্ধ। আপনি যদি এই সম্পর্কে আরো জানতে চান তাহলে পরিদর্শন করুন এখানে এখানে কিছু গবেষণা রয়েছে যা আমাদের চিন্তাভাবনাকে আন্ডারলাইন করে: "সামাজিক পুঁজির বিকাশে ব্যক্তি এবং সম্প্রদায়কে সাহায্য করার জন্য আমাদের সকলের ভূমিকা রয়েছে৷ ক্রমবর্ধমান স্বীকৃতি রয়েছে যে যদিও সুবিধাবঞ্চিত সামাজিক গোষ্ঠী এবং সম্প্রদায়গুলির জটিল এবং আন্তঃসম্পর্কিত প্রয়োজনের একটি পরিসীমা রয়েছে, তাদের সামাজিক এবং সম্প্রদায় স্তরে সম্পদও রয়েছে৷ যা স্বাস্থ্যের উন্নতিতে সাহায্য করতে পারে, এবং স্বাস্থ্য সমস্যার প্রতি স্থিতিস্থাপকতা জোরদার করতে পারে" (দ্য কিংস ফান্ড, 2018) "যাদের পর্যাপ্ত সামাজিক সম্পর্ক আছে তাদের বেঁচে থাকার হার দুর্বল সামাজিক সম্পর্কযুক্ত ব্যক্তিদের তুলনায় 50 শতাংশ বেশি ছিল" (Holt-Lunstad et al 2010) "সামাজিক নেটওয়ার্কগুলিকে সাধারণ জীবনধারা এবং ক্লিনিকাল ঝুঁকি যেমন মাঝারি ধূমপান, অত্যধিক অ্যালকোহল সেবন, স্থূলতা এবং উচ্চ কোলেস্টেরল এবং রক্তচাপের মতো মৃত্যুহারের শক্তিশালী ভবিষ্যদ্বাণী হিসাবে দেখানো হয়েছে" (Pantell et al 2013; Holt-Lunstad et al, 2010) . "সামাজিক সমর্থন বিশেষ করে স্থিতিস্থাপকতা বৃদ্ধি এবং অসুস্থতা থেকে পুনরুদ্ধারের প্রচারে গুরুত্বপূর্ণ" (পেভালিন এবং রোজ, 2003) "সামাজিক নেটওয়ার্ক এবং সমর্থনের অভাব আচরণকে স্ব-নিয়ন্ত্রিত করা এবং সময়ের সাথে সাথে ইচ্ছাশক্তি এবং স্থিতিস্থাপকতা তৈরি করা কঠিন করে তোলে, যা অস্বাস্থ্যকর আচরণে জড়িত হতে পারে" (Cacioppo and Patrick 2009)। "সম্প্রদায়ের অংশগ্রহণ বিচ্ছিন্নতা, বর্জন এবং একাকীত্ব হ্রাস করে" (ফারেল এবং ব্রায়ান্ট 2009; সেভিগনি এট আল 2010; রায়ান-কলিন্স এট আল 2008) "শক্তিশালী সামাজিক পুঁজি ধূমপানের মতো জীবনযাত্রার ঝুঁকি এড়ানোর সম্ভাবনাকে উন্নত করে" (ফোল্যান্ড 2008; ব্রাউন এট আল, 2006) Autumn Programme 2025 September 2nd (Short) Thriving Communities The TC grant was launched in August. Come along and find out more about it and hear about the work that has been funded through the scheme. 16th (Short) Digital Inclusion Strategy – Stakeholder Engagement with GCC This session will be led by those involved in the Digital Inclusion Project in Gloucestershire. 30th (Short) Health in the Forest A focus on health-related matters and support that is available in our locality. October 14th (In-person) Spotlight on Cinderford This meeting will take the form of a walk around the town visiting some of the projects that are being led by FKYP members and partners. We will meet at Ow Bist Forest Community Space and follow a route round Cinderford. 28th (Short) FODCAP Update Come along and hear about developments and updates on project in the Forest. November 11th (Short) Community Support Showcasing the work of several community groups who work for the benefit of the Forest Community. 25th (Long) Health in the Forest Another session where we will focus on health-related matters and support that is available in our locality. Please note The meeting on October 14th will be in-person and an opportunity for all those attending to network. All other meetings are online on MS Teams. The invitation will be sent out at the beginning of the season and then the link will be added to the regular reminder email – together with meeting notes from the previous session and the Agenda for the meeting If you would like to deliver a presentation at a forthcoming meeting or there is a topic that you would like to be addressed, please contact Teresa Rose, FKYP Facilitator at fodkyp@fvaf.org.uk to discuss this further. We look forward to seeing you in the forthcoming weeks.

FOREST VOLUNTEER AWARDS IT'S VOTING TIME! The PUBLIC VOTE is now OPEN for Volunteer of the Year 2026 - The People's Champion! VOTING CLOSES: MIDNIGHT THURSDAY 27 AUGUST 2026 We had so many fantastic nominations, with every one a worthy winner BUT after much deliberation our judging panel shortlisted the following local volunteers: VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE Julie Abolins - CANDI Lewis Chapman – Brody’s Trust Alice Hogge – Wye Valley Music Anne Lamacraft – Forest of Dean Baby Bank Jane Osborne – Tiny Spikes Hedgehog Rescue Claire Smeeth – Drybrook Rugby Club & Forest Health Forum Submit Find out why these amazing volunteers were nominated below: JULIE ABOLINS CANDI Julie gives to the community unconditionally, supporting everyone who walks through CANDI's (Cinderford Area Neighbourhood Development Initiative) doors. LEWIS CHAPMAN Brody's Trust Lewis is a volunteer trustee at Brody's Trust who goes above and beyond, helping manage projects across renovation, maintenance, IT, governance and more. ALICE HOGGE Wye Valley Music Alice is the driving force behind Wye Valley Music in Mind project and a dedicated Music for Memories Ambassador, creating opportunities for people living with dementia to experience the joy and connection music brings. She has helped set up a multitude of groups — coffee mornings, lunch clubs, mental health support, children's groups, safe spaces and homework clubs — reaching every corner of the community. She was the driving force behind the weekly Women's Space, a welcoming environment for women who have experienced domestic abuse to share experiences and meet new people. She exudes empathy, understanding and commitment in everything she does, while also supporting her team of volunteers. Julie truly deserves recognition for her immeasurable contribution to CANDI and the wider community. Despite being involved with multiple businesses full-time in Bristol, he travels up at least once a week and most weekends to work in the hub — running cables, breaking down walls, painting, and chasing contractors. He had no prior links to Brody's Trust; he simply heard the story and jumped in. Quiet and unseeking of recognition, Lewis's practical skills and unwavering dedication have been vital to developing the charity's facilities and supporting its growth. Her personal lived experience of dementia gives her a unique ability to connect with individuals and families, focusing on the person rather than the condition. Through performances and community sessions across St Briavels and beyond, Alice has built welcoming, inclusive spaces where people with dementia, carers and families can come together with dignity and respect. Her warmth and leadership have inspired a strong, committed volunteer team. ANNE LAMACRAFT Forest of Dean Baby Bank Anne is a force of nature whose compassion and drive inspire everyone around her. She consistently goes above and beyond for the families the Forest of Dean Baby Bank supports. JANE OSBORNE Tiny Spikes Hedgehog Rescue For a species fighting for survival, Jane Osborne is a lifeline. She set up Tiny Spikes Hedgehog Rescue in Lydney, drawing on expertise gained volunteering at another rescue before striking out on her own. CLAIRE SMEETH Drybrook Rugby Club & Forest Health Forum Claire is a longstanding and committed member of the committee at Drybrook Rugby Club, giving her time and energy generously to the club's success. Stepping in without being asked whenever volunteers are away or unwell, Anne is brilliant at taking initiative and simply getting things done, filling gaps quietly and reliably. Her commitment has made a real difference to the organisation, and the Forest of Dean Baby Bank has benefited enormously from having her on board. Anne's dedication and can-do spirit make her a truly deserving nominee for this award. It's a demanding role — long hours, personal sacrifice, and total dedication to the spiky bundles in her care. Her rescue filled a vital gap, as there hadn't been one in this part of the Forest of Dean for around seven years. Jane saves local residents a long journey with a sick hedgehog, and her selfless commitment to wildlife welfare makes her a wonderful nominee. She has also served tirelessly as volunteer secretary for the Forest Health Forum, acting as a valuable sounding board for its committee. Claire's steady support has been especially important through the Forum's recent transition, helping keep it running and representative for people across the Forest of Dean. Her dual commitment across two very different community organisations reflects a genuine dedication to service that thoroughly deserves recognition.