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!

BOOK HERE! Frequently visited pages: COMMUNITY HUBS VOLUNTEER ADVICE YOUTH SUPPORT Kas yra FVAF? FVAF reiškia Forest Voluntary Action Forum. Siūlome paramą vietos piliečiams, bendruomenės grupėms ir veiklai, kad jie galėtų daryti tai, kas jiems svarbiausia. Tai apima: pagalba ir plėtros patarimai mokymas informacija tinklo susitikimai palengvinantis atstovavimą savanorių verbavimas savanorių įdarbinimas ir parama Taip pat vykdome daug projektų su vietos bendruomene ir jai, pavyzdžiui, jaunimo asociacija „Forest of Dean“, „Šventinės veiklos kampanijos“, „Miško jaunimo muzikos tinklas“, „GEM projektas“, „Miško kompaso katalogas“, „Pasivaikščiojimas su ratais“ ir daugelis kitų. Išsamią informaciją rasite mūsų puslapyje Projektai. „Kuriame stipresnes bendruomenes Dino miškas“ Sužinoti daugiau JOIN OUR MAILING LIST Get the latest community news and check out exciting volunteering opportunity in or around the Forest of Dean... Eikite į „Facebook“. Useful publications: FREE directory of the many volunteering opportunities available locally... DOWNLOAD Mūsų partneriai 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

Vaikščiojimas su ratukais Naudokite vieną iš visureigiai mobilūs paspirtukai, kad kartu su šeima ir draugais pasiektumėte gražius miško takus, nepaisant jūsų gebėjimo vaikščioti. The Dino miškas yra pripažintas pėsčiųjų ir dviračių centras, jį gerai aptarnauja takai ir kitos paviršinės prieigos. Tačiau žmonėms, turintiems fizinę negalią, prastos sveikatos, jutimo sutrikimų ar kitų slopinančių būklių, gali prireikti tam tikros pagalbos, specializuoto vertimo ar kitų tinkamų priemonių, kad jie galėtų mėgautis privalumais, kuriuos kiti laiko savaime suprantamu dalyku. Tai Miškininkų miškas Paveldo loterijos finansuojamas projektas, dirbama kartu su Mobilumas kaime suteikia galimybę daugiau žmonių patekti į Dekano mišką. „Walking with Wheels“ siūlo universalius paspirtukus (vadinamus „Trampers“), kuriuos galima išsinuomoti iš „Forest Holidays at Christchurch“ ir „Speech House“ viešbučio. „Trampers“ yra iš anksto suplanuotiems maršrutams, iš kurių atsiveria vaizdai į Symonds Yat, Biblins, Cyril Hart medelyną ir Mallards Pike ežerą. Jei norite daugiau sužinoti apie ėjimą su ratais, skambinkite 01594 822073 arba susisiekite su mumis el . Dažnai užduodami klausimai Kas yra "tramperis"? Kas gali naudotis šia paslauga? Kokiais maršrutais galiu juo naudotis? Kada galima išsinuomoti? Kaip galiu užsisakyti vieną? Kiek kainuoja išsinuomoti Tramperį? Ką daryti, jei niekada anksčiau nenaudojau nė vieno iš jų? Ką daryti, jei man reikia papildomos pagalbos? Kodėl aš turiu tapti „Countryside Mobility“ nariu? Ar galiu padėti įgyvendinant šį projektą? Ką daryti, jei man reikia atšaukti užsakymą? Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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

FVAF Appoints Nick Penny as Head of Operations FVAF is delighted to announce the appointment of Nick Penny to the newly created role of Head of Operations, effective 1 January 2026. Nick brings over five years of dedicated service to FVAF, where he has been instrumental in driving delivery of various community projects as Programme Manager. His promotion recognises his outstanding contribution to the organisation and his deep understanding of FVAF's community-rooted approach. In his new role, Nick will provide strategic leadership across FVAF's operational teams, programmes, and internal systems. He will oversee frontline delivery, ensure operational excellence, and lead the organisation's people-management functions. Reporting directly to the CEO, Nick will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, guiding FVAF's continued growth and impact. The Head of Operations role has been established to strengthen FVAF's infrastructure and ensure the organisation's delivery remains aligned with its TRIBE (Trust, Relational, Innovation, Bravery, Equity) values and Theory of Change. Chris Brown, FVAF CEO said: "Nick lives and breathes community. He is a fantastic role model within the organisation and his commitment to the Forest of Dean and FVAF is infectious. I am delighted that Nick will be taking this next step in his journey with us and am excited to see what we’ll achieve together”. Nick Penny said: “I am really excited by the opportunities that this new role brings for both my own personal development and the continued growth of the Charity. I am extremely grateful to our Board of Trustees for their support of Chris and the leadership team with this investment in developing our organisation. It is fantastic to wake up in the morning knowing that my role, and those of my colleagues, contribute so successfully to making a positive impact across our Forest of Dean community." 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 Forest of Dean Youth Association, Holiday Activity Campaigns, The Forest Youth Music Network, The Gloucestershire Digi Partnership, The Forest Compass Directory, Walking with Wheels FVAF receives some financial support from the Forest of Dean District Council and funds activities through external funding opportunities Head office - Forest Voluntary Action Forum, Ow Bist – Forest Community Space, Dockham Rd, Cinderford, Glos. GL14 2AN.

Savanoriška veikla Kaip dekano miško savanorių centras esame čia, kad padėtume jums įdarbinti ir valdyti savanorius Mūsų nauja savanorystė knygelė užpildyta smulkmenomis vietos savanorystės galimybių jau nebeliko SPAUSKITE, KAD ATSISIŲSTI Arba pasiimkite kopiją vietinėje bibliotekoje arba bendruomenės centre Kaip Savanorių centras Deano miškas mes dažnai esame pirmasis kontaktinis asmuo visiems, kurie domisi savanoriška veikla. Praėjusiais metais didžiavomės galėdami paremti daugiau nei 100 000 valandų savanoriškos veiklos šioje vietovėje! FVAF reklamuoja ir reklamuoja įvairias savanoriškos veiklos galimybes iš organizacijų, kurios remiasi savanoriais ir atpažįsta daugybę priežasčių, kodėl žmonės pasirenka savanoriauti. Kodėl Savanoris? Savanoriška veikla turi daug naudos ne tik jums asmeniškai, bet ir jūsų bendruomenei bei pasauliui, kuriame gyvename. Jei norite patobulinti savo CV, susipažinti su naujais žmonėmis, panaudoti savo įgūdžius, išmokti ko nors naujo, domintis, pasiūlyti patirties ar tiesiog pakeisti, mes garantuotai turėsime jums galimybę! Apie šias galimybes galite sužinoti šiais būdais: Paieškos galimybės adresu Do-it.org Skambinkite mums 01594 822073 Susisiekite per paštu Ateikite pas mus į FVAF I - Pen 9:00 - 1:00 ( kryptys ) Jei norite savanoriauti kaip didelės grupės dalis, pavyzdžiui, kaip įmonės savanorystės dalis, mes taip pat turime daugybę galimybių rinktis. Get the latest volunteer opportunities - direct to your mailbox! Sign up to receive our regular email Volunteer Newsletter: SIGN UP HELP FOR GROUPS - recruiting & managing volunteers Kaip „vieno langelio“ principas, skirtas visiems savanorystės dalykams, naudojame įvairiapusę metodiką, kad suteiktume jums geriausią įmanomą galimybę įdarbinti ir išlaikyti vertingus savanorius. Tai apima: Reklamuokite savo galimybes Do-it.org Reklamuoti savo galimybes visuomenės nariams, kuriuos mums nurodė arba per mūsų įtraukimo funkciją. Reklamuokite savo galimybes mūsų Facebook ir Twitter puslapiuose Reklamuoti savo galimybes vietinėms tarnyboms, kurios remia savanorystę, pvz. Darbo centras, LearnDirect ir 2GetherTrust Reklamuokite savo galimybes daugiau nei 30 renginių per metus Siųskite savo galimybes vietinėms įmonėms, kurios siūlo darbdavių remiamą savanorystę Atitinkamų galimybių skatinimas mokykloms, kolegijose ir universitetuose Jūsų galimybių platinimas mūsų savanorių duomenų bazėje, kurioje yra daugiau nei 1000 žmonių Savo galimybių reklamavimas įvairiuose tinkluose, įskaitant Know Your Patch As a one-stop-shop for all things volunteering, we can help you find, and keep, the perfect volunteer: Get in touch - call us on 01594 822073, via email or visit us at FVAF, Ow Bist - Forest Community Space, Dockham Road, Cinderford GL14 2AN (Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm)

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.

Apie FVAF Mūsų istorija Esame Savanoriškos tarnybos taryba ir Dekano miško savanorių centras. Mes teikiame pagalbą daugeliui iš šimtų savanoriškų ir bendruomeninių organizacijų rajone, kurios savo ruožtu gali geriau atlikti savo darbą vietos bendruomenėje ir jos labui. Nuo tada, kai susikūrėme 1994 m., sukūrėme reputaciją kaip skatindami, įtraukdami ir gerindami bendruomenės veiklą visame Deano miške. Tikime, kad taikydami bendruomenės vadovaujamus metodus leidžiame piliečiams ugdyti įgūdžius, atsparumą ir socialinį kapitalą, kad jie galėtų gyventi laimingesnį ir geriau susieti gyvenimą. Biuro paslaugos Darbuotojai ir patikėtiniai politika Prieinamumas ir tvarumas

Universal Youth Services Partnership bringing Open Access Universal Youth Services to Gloucester and the Forest of Dean! Together with Gloucestershire Gateway Trust and The Venture Community Hub (TVCH), we’ve joined forces to make a real difference in the lives of young people. Guided by GGT, in the Forest of Dean FVAF is leading on supporting a wide range of services for young people aged 11 to 19 (or up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities). Our youth services will be available to everyone, focusing on the needs of the local community to create a more connected, supported, and engaging youth sector. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT... Gloucestershire Gateway Trust The Venture Community Hub