Two brilliant people, two exciting new roles! READ MORE Frequently visited pages: COMMUNITY HUBS VOLUNTEER ADVICE YOUTH SUPPORT Što je FVAF? FVAF je skraćenica od Forest Voluntary Action Forum. Nudimo podršku lokalnim građanima, grupama u zajednici i aktivnostima da rade stvari koje su im najvažnije. To uključuje sljedeće: podrška i savjeti za razvoj trening informacija umrežavanje sastanaka olakšavanje predstavljanja volontersko zapošljavanje volonterski smještaj i podrška Također vodimo mnoge projekte sa i za lokalnu zajednicu, kao što su Udruga mladih Šuma dekana, Kampanje blagdanskih aktivnosti, The Forest Youth Music Network, The GEM Project, The Forest Compass Directory, Hodanje s kotačima i još mnogo toga. Pogledajte našu stranicu Projekti za sve detalje. „Izgradnja jačih zajednica u dekanska šuma" Saznaj više JOIN OUR MAILING LIST Get the latest community news and check out exciting volunteering opportunity in or around the Forest of Dean... Idite na Facebook Useful publications: FREE directory of the many volunteering opportunities available locally... DOWNLOAD Naši partneri 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

🌟 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 .

O FVAF-u Naša priča Mi smo Vijeće volonterskog servisa i Volonterski centar Dekanske šume. Pružamo pomoć mnogim od stotina dobrovoljnih i društvenih organizacija u Distriktu koje su zauzvrat sposobnije obavljati svoj rad ui za lokalnu zajednicu. Od osnivanja 1994. razvili smo reputaciju poticanja, prihvaćanja i poboljšanja djelovanja zajednice u cijeloj Dekanskoj šumi. Vjerujemo da kroz pristupe vođene zajednicom omogućujemo građanima da razviju vještine, otpornost i društveni kapital kako bi živjeli sretnijim, bolje povezanim životima. Uredske usluge Osoblje i povjerenici Politike Pristupačnost i održivost

Forest of Dean Mental Health Locality Partnership The Locality Partnership offers VCS and faith-based organisations the opportunity to meet with other professionals and voluntary groups who are supporting people with their mental health in the Forest of Dean. The Partnership is a collective of social care practitioners who are working towards a community response to the My Networks scoping project findings. By coming together, we hope to keep abreast of developments, begin partnership projects or create collaborative opportunities that can address what is needed for better mental health in the Forest of Dean. We are now an integral part of the wider Forest Know Your Patch network. Regular online meetings as well as live, in-person events are held where topics and projects are discussed and highlighted. As well as this, the FKYP works closely with other statutory organisations offering a platform to disseminate up-to-date information about services available in the community.

Forum konektora zajednice - Upoznajte svoju mrežu zakrpa Supporting Strong and Thriving Communities with Know Your Patch Podrška jakim i uspješnim zajednicama uz pomoć Know Your Patch Dio Know Your Patch Foruma za povezivanje zajednice (CCF) povezuje volonterski i društveni sektor, zakonske službe i lokalno stanovništvo na način koji stvara bolje načine rada. The Forest of Dean Know Your Patch Network osmišljena je za povezivanje dobrovoljnog i društvenog sektora, zakonskih službi i lokalnog stanovništva na način koji stvara bolje načine rada što u konačnici jača naše zajednice. Ova 'ponuda zajednice' osobito je vitalna u sprječavanju ili odgađanju eskalacije zdravstvenih potreba. Mi smo domaćini tromjesečnih događanja u cijeloj Forest of Dean gdje pozivamo dionike da se pridruže raspravi o tome što je važno u njihovoj zajednici i kako usluge i grupe dobrovoljnog sektora mogu pomoći u tome. Svaki događaj Know Your Patch je BESPLATAN i otvoren za sve koji žele biti dio razgovora. Ako želite prisustvovati, nazovite na 01594 822073 ili e-mail help4groups@fvaf.org.uk . Također šaljemo redovite e-mailove i ažuriranja našoj mreži Know Your Patch o tome što se događa u Forest of Dean. Ako se želite pridružiti ovoj mreži, pretplatite se ovdje . Zahvaljujući financiranju iz Gloucestershire County Council , Know Your Patch je također dostupan u svakom drugom okrugu u Gloucestershireu. Ako želite saznati više o njima, posjetite ovdje . Evo nekih istraživanja koja naglašavaju naše razmišljanje: "Svi mi moramo igrati ulogu u pomaganju pojedincima i zajednicama da razviju društveni kapital. Sve je više uviđanje da, iako društvene skupine i zajednice u nepovoljnom položaju imaju niz složenih i međusobno povezanih potreba, one također imaju sredstva na društvenoj razini i razini zajednice koji mogu pomoći u poboljšanju zdravlja i jačanju otpornosti na zdravstvene probleme" (The Kings Fund, 2018.) "Oni s adekvatnim društvenim odnosima imali su 50 posto veću stopu preživljavanja u usporedbi s pojedincima s lošim društvenim odnosima" (Holt-Lunstad et al 2010.) "Pokazalo se da su društvene mreže jednako moćni prediktori smrtnosti kao i uobičajeni način života i klinički rizici kao što su umjereno pušenje, prekomjerna konzumacija alkohola, pretilost i visoki kolesterol i krvni tlak" (Pantell et al 2013; Holt-Lunstad et al, 2010) . „Društvena podrška je posebno važna u povećanju otpornosti i promicanju oporavka od bolesti“ (Pevalin i Rose, 2003.) „Nedostatak društvenih mreža i podrške otežava samoregulaciju ponašanja i izgradnju snage volje i otpornosti tijekom vremena, što dovodi do uključivanja u nezdrava ponašanja“ (Cacioppo i Patrick 2009.). "Sudjelovanje u zajednici smanjuje izolaciju, isključenost i usamljenost" (Farrell i Bryant 2009.; Sevigny i sur. 2010.; Ryan-Collins et al 2008.) „Snažan društveni kapital poboljšava šanse za izbjegavanje rizika od načina života kao što je pušenje“ (Folland 2008; Brown et al, 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.

LATEST FVAF NEWS Two brilliant people, two exciting new roles! We’re really pleased to share some good news. As part of a strategic restructure, we’ve created two new senior roles – and we’re delighted that both have been filled by people already at the heart of our organisation. These appointments recognise the talent, experience and deep community knowledge within our own team, and reflect our commitment to growing strong leadership from within. Deb Cook – Head of Development After more than a decade with FVAF, Deb’s promotion feels like a natural next step. She has played a huge role in building relationships, championing co-design, and helping turn bold ideas and community stories into meaningful change. As Head of Development, Deb will lead our development strategy – strengthening partnerships, supporting innovation, amplifying community voices, and helping us test and grow new approaches that align with our Theory of Change. Chris Brown, CEO at FVAF said: “After 11 years with FVAF championing volunteering and community groups, I could not be more thrilled to see Deb moving into this exciting new role within the organisation. Deb will bring fresh ideas, energy, and passion to drive innovation in our communities and help grow all the things which make the Forest of Dean such a brilliant place.” Alex Digby – Community Manager We’re equally pleased to announce Alex’s move into the newly created role of Community Manager. Alex will lead our Community Team, supporting projects that put local people in the driving seat, build strong connections, and unlock the skills and assets already present across the Forest of Dean. This role sits right at the heart of our commitment to community-led action and advocacy. “It has been fantastic to watch and support Alex’s growth in our organisation over the last few years, and I am delighted that he has secured this exciting promotion. Alex is a role model for strengths-based working, and he has excelled at building strong relationships across the county in his role as Digital Projects Manager. I am confident that Alex will provide strong leadership to our Community team and look forward to supporting his continued growth with FVAF.” said Nick Penny, Head of Operations at FVAF. Both of these appointments reflect our belief in investing in people and recognising internal talent. They will play a key role in shaping FVAF’s future and deepening our impact across the Forest of Dean. We couldn’t be prouder to see Deb and Alex step into these roles. For media enquires contact communications@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073. -END - Notes to editor: Established in 1994, Forest Voluntary Action Forum (FVAF) is the Voluntary Service Council and Volunteer Centre for the Forest of Dean The charity offers support to local citizens, community groups and activities including support and development advice, training, networking meetings, facilitating representation, volunteer recruitment, volunteer placement and support In addition, FVAF delivers projects with and for the local community, including Youth Support Service, Holiday Activity and Food Programme, The Gloucestershire Digi Partnership, The Forest Compass Directory, Walking with Wheels Head office - Forest Voluntary Action Forum, Ow Bist – Forest Community Space, Dockham Rd, Cinderford , Glos. GL14 2AN.

Role: Caretaker Salary: £20,000 – £24,800 (depending on experience) Hours: 30 hours per week, Mon–Fri, 7:30am–2pm (some evenings/weekends may be required) Contract: Permanent contract Location: Ow Bist Forest Community Space, Cinderford Do you take pride in keeping spaces safe, well-maintained, and welcoming? Do you care about your community and want your work to make a real difference in the Forest of Dean We're looking for a passionate and proactive Caretaker to be the heartbeat of Ow Bist Forest Community Space — a vibrant hub where local organisations, community groups, and people come together to collaborate, connect, and thrive. The Role This is a hands-on, varied role. As our Caretaker, you'll be the person who makes sure everything runs smoothly. You'll be responsible for: Day-to-day facilities management, building security, and opening/closing procedures Proactive maintenance, minor repairs, and contractor management Leading health and safety compliance, risk assessments, and staff training Overseeing cleaning staff and eco-friendly supplies Supporting FVAF's sustainability goals — monitoring utilities, promoting recycling, and championing green practices Managing room set-ups for events and building users Operating and maintaining the FVAF Community Engagement Vehicle Building great relationships with tenants, colleagues, and community partners JOB DESCRIPTION: Caretaker 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. Applications will be considered as they are received. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact projects@fvaf.org.uk

Photo: L to R County Cllr Ray Donaghue, Chris Brown (FVAF CEO) & Reuben Brown, Tom Cousins, Cinderford Town Mayor Roger Sterry & Cllr Sid Phelps Local Councillors Celebrate New Community Mural Marking FVAF's 30th Anniversary Striking artwork brings together decades of Forest of Dean community action Local councillors visited Cinderford earlier this month to view a vibrant new community mural celebrating the Forest of Dean's heritage of grassroots activism and marking Forest Voluntary Action Forum's 30th anniversary. Councillors from Cinderford Town Council and County Councillor Ray Donaghue toured the large-scale artwork, which was made possible through funding from Gloucestershire County Council's Build Back Better Fund. A Community-Led Design The mural emerged from summer workshops where local residents shared stories, memories, and perspectives spanning decades of community action. Local artist Tom Cousins transformed these diverse voices into a unified artwork capturing the enduring spirit of volunteerism that defines the area. The design bridges past and present, from early 20th century Friendly Society Banners to today's environmental campaigns. It showcases grassroots volunteer-led groups, community choirs and music festivals, local food networks, sports clubs, and community-owned shops and pubs. References to the area as the "land between two rivers" ground the celebration in the Forest of Dean's distinctive landscape and character. Catherine Best, Communications & Fundraising Manager at FVAF, said: "This mural wasn't just about improving the look of our new community building – it's about celebrating who we are as a community and the pride we have in our local heritage. Every time you look at it, you see something different. We've had a fantastic response from local people stopping to take a look, taking pictures and discussing what they see and what it means to them. We hope it will serve as both a reminder of the rich heritage of community action in our past and an inspiration for the future." Part of a Wider Transformation The mural is part of FVAF's transformation of the former doctor's surgery into a welcoming, inclusive community space for everyone in Cinderford and the wider district. For over 30 years, FVAF has helped local people turn ideas into action through resources, guidance, and networking opportunities. The organisation works with over 800 community groups annually to make the Forest of Dean an even better place to live. For more information, contact communications@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073.

Hodanje s kotačima Koristite jedan od skuteri za mobilnost na svim terenima za pristup prekrasnim šumskim stazama sa svojom obitelji i prijateljima, bez obzira na vaše sposobnosti hodanja. The Šuma Dean je priznati centar za šetnju i vožnju biciklom i dobro je opslužen stazama i drugim površinskim pristupima. Za osobe s tjelesnim invaliditetom, lošim zdravljem, osjetnim oštećenjem ili nekim drugim inhibirajućim stanjem, međutim, može postojati potreba za nekom stručnom pomoći, specijaliziranim tumačenjem ili drugim odgovarajućim medijima kako bi im se omogućilo uživanje u pogodnostima koje drugi uzimaju zdravo za gotovo. Ovaj Šumarska šuma Projekt financiran od lutrije baštine, u suradnji s Mobilnost na selu pruža mogućnosti da više ljudi pristupi Dekanskoj šumi. Walking with Wheels nudi skutere za mobilnost na svim terenima (zvane Trampers) za najam od Forest Holidays u Christchurchu i hotela Speech House. Trampersi su dostupni za unaprijed ucrtane rute koje pružaju pogled na Symonds Yat, Biblins, Arboretum Cyril Hart i jezero Mallards Pike, da spomenemo samo neke. Ako želite saznati više o Hodnju s kotačima, nazovite 01594 822073 ili kontaktirajte nas putem e-pošte . Često postavljana pitanja Što je 'Tramper'? Tko može koristiti ovu uslugu? Na kojim rutama ga mogu koristiti? Kada je moguće unajmiti? Kako mogu rezervirati? Koliko košta unajmiti Trampera? Što ako nikada prije nisam koristio jedan od ovih? Što ako trebam dodatnu pomoć? Zašto moram postati član Countryside Mobility? Mogu li pomoći s ovim projektom? Što ako trebam otkazati rezervaciju? Frequently Asked Questions

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN! CLOSING DATE: MIDNIGHT SUNDAY 19 JULY 2026 Nomination Form 2026 Please select in which category you would like to nominate the individual or group. Your Volunteer of the Year Young Volunteer of the Year 21yrs & under Community Organisation of the Year Grassroots Award - Voluntary Group of the Year ESV Business in the Community Award FoD Dementia Action Alliance Diversity & Inclusion Award FoDCAP Community Climate Action Award Name of the volunteer/group being nominated: Name of the organisation or group linked to the nominee (for individual nominees only) Volunteer role or role of group Contact details for nominee (email and telephone) If you are providing personal contact details, do you have permission to share this person's information? If not, no problem—we will use the general contact details of the group or organisation associated with the nominee instead. Yes No Reason for nomination - please provide a brief description which outlines why you think this individual or group stands out. What makes them special and worthy of being celebrated? Your name Your email address Are you happy for us to keep your contact details for the purpose of this nomination only? Yes No Submit

COMMUNITY CONNECTORS’ FORUM/KNOW YOUR PATCH NETWORK In-person event 14 June 2022 at The Wesley, Cinderford Event Feedback \ Thank you for participating in our event! Tell us what you thought about it. Name & organisation Please indicate on a scale of 1 – 10, where 1 is the most negative and 10 the most positive What was your overall impression of the day? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 What was your experience of the speakers? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Please share any comments about your overall impression of the day and the speakers What was your experience of the activities? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Please share any comments about the activities What was your experience of the refreshments? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Was there anything else that you feel could have been provided? What would you like to see in future events? Suggested speakers/format etc Your email Send Feedback Thanks for your feedback!