Forest of Dean Digital Partnership FUNDED BY THE BARNWOOD TRUST A collaborative community partnership project, led by FVAF. This district-wide partnership, the first of its kind, was created to break down the barriers people face in relation to digital inclusion and unlock the many assets available within our communities and the digital world.   Forest of Dean Digital Partnership - Final Evaluation September 2024 Report - Download Forest of Dean Digital Partnership - Final Evaluation September 2024: APPENDICES APPENDIX 1: Forest of Dean Digital Partnership Application APPENDIX 2: Insight into Set up and Delivery of Local Digital Inclusion Pilot Projects APPENDIX 3: Healthwatch Gloucestershire - Access to digital technologies APPENDIX 4: Partner Claim Form APPENDIX 5: Instructions for filling in Partner’s claim form APPENDIX 6: Promo flier - Invitation to get involved APPENDIX 7: EOI Process Map APPENDIX 8: EOI Document A template APPENDIX 9: EOI Document B template APPENDIX 10: EOI scoring sheet APPENDIX 11:Forest of Dean Community Choir EOI Document 1 APPENDIX 12: Forest of Dean Community Choir EOI Document 2 APPENDIX 13: Virtual Sight Loss EOI Document 1 APPENDIX 14: Virtual Sight Loss EOI Document 2 APPENDIX 15: CVT EOI Document 1 APPENDIX 16: CVT EOI Document 2 APPENDIX 17: Outdoors, Indoors EOI Document 1 APPENDIX 18: Outdoors, Indoors EOI Document 2 APPENDIX 19: Forest Pathways EOI Document 1 APPENDIX 20: Forest Pathways EOI Document 2 APPENDIX 21: Project Engage EOI Document 1 APPENDIX 22: Project Engage EOI Document 2 APPENDIX 23: Forest of Dean Hybrid Choir Final Evaluation APPENDIX 24: CVT - Digital Inclusion Workshop Final Evaluation APPENDIX 25: Outdoors, Indoors Final Evaluation APPENDIX 26: Forest Pathways Final Evaluation APPENDIX 27: Forest Pathways Executive Summary APPENDIX 28: Reflection Session Presentation APPENDIX 29: Journey Reflection OTHER PROJECT PUBLICATIONS: EASY READ BOOKLET - How to use the computer and software EASY READ BOOKLET - Staying Safe Online

We crown our community heroes! The community turned out in force on Tuesday 3 October to see local volunteers crowned at our glittering Forest Volunteers Awards 2023 celebration at the AccXel Training Centre in Cinderford. READ THE NOMINEE PROFILES IN THE AWARDS PROGRAMME We created the Forest Volunteer Awards to recognise and celebrate the amazing efforts of local volunteers in the Forest of Dean and earlier this Summer, we asked you to nominate those volunteer heroes who have demonstrated exceptional and outstanding support to the local community over the past 12 months. We had an amazing response and received hundreds of nominations. Our expert community panel had the tough task of shortlisting the nominations and picking the winners. However,one category - Volunteer of the Year – Peoples’ Champion – was decided by a public vote withalmost 1,400 votes cast. The winners were crowned at a special evening, held at the stunning conference space at the impressive AccXel Training Centre, which was provided for free to FVAF by local construction company the KW Bell Group, who were the main sponsors of the event. Jando Greco, volunteer at St Stephens Church in Cinderford was crowned Volunteer of the Year – the People’s Champion following a public vote. A volunteer of over 12 years his nominator said: “We so appreciate him, he is such a thoughtful, caring person and will do anything for anyone – Jando is so worthy of receiving this award.” Young volunteers were celebrated with Ebony Powell, volunteer and fundraiser at Forest of Dean Dog Rescue crowned under 16 years old Young Volunteer of the Year for her caring and dedicated commitment caring for the rescue dogs, whilst in the 17 – 25 years old category, Daisy Hoole rewarded for her tireless hard work volunteering at C.A.N.D.I Youth Space. In the groups section, The George in Newnham was recognised as the New Voluntary Group of the Year for reopening the former café as a vibrant community space. Next up, was Sedbury Space who picked up the Grassroots Voluntary Group award in recognition of the fantastic efforts of the community to create a thriving, inclusive, welcoming hub. Fire safety education organisation SkillZONE was awarded the Community Organisation award for their responsive work with young people in the Forest, and a team of volunteers from EDF Energy picked up the Business in the Community Award for helping out at Camphill Village Trust in Lydney. Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance (FDDAA) sponsored the launch of a new Inclusion Award, with Cinderford Bowls Club scooping the top spot for making changes to the game and their grounds to make bowls accessible for everyone to enjoy. Our Volunteering Manager Deb Cook said “So much of what happens within our community is because of people who give their time and energy for free. We think that recognising the amazing efforts of volunteers and organisations is incredibly important which is why we have been so pleased by the reaction of the local people who have supported these awards by nominating and voting.” Deb added, “It has been an incredible evening and we are so lucky and proud of the strength of the amazing voluntary sector we have in the Forest.” Master of Ceremony for the Forest Volunteer Awards was Steve Knibbs, BBC Points West reporter who kept the guests entertained with his expert hosting skills. Award winners were announced by guest presenters; Mark Topping( Leader of Forest of Dean District Council), Emma Snell (Go Volunteer Glos), Penny Hulbert (FVAF Chair of Trustees), Jonathan Lane (Cabinet Member for Economy at FODDC), Kirsty Downie (John Lewis Partnership & Waitrose - Monmouth), and Andrea Harman (Ecophon). The celebration evening was made possible thanks to generous sponsorship for the following local organisations: KW Bell Group and AccXel Training Centre – main sponsors Ecophon Simplicity in Business Steve Gooch Estate Agents Waitrose & Partners (Monmouth Store) FOREST VOLUNTEER AWARD WINNERS 2023: Volunteer of the Year – Peoples’ Champion WINNER: Jando Greco – St Stephens Church, Cinderford Highly Commended: Chris Brain (Broadwell Football Club), Melanie Getgood (Friends of Worcester Walk), Edna Husbands (Lydcare Community Transport), Barbara Jenkins (Over 60’s Group at Berryhill Memorial Hut), Albert Weager (community representative & advocate for better healthcare) and Dave Young (Forest Sensory Services and Samaritans). New Voluntary Group of the Year WINNER: The George, Newnham Highly Commended: Lydney Army Cadets Young Volunteer of the Year 16yrs & under WINNER: Ebony Powell – Forest of Dean Dog Rescue Highly Commended: Evie Harris - community volunteer and Teens in Crisis fundraiser Young Volunteer of the Year 17 – 25yrs WINNER: Daisy Hoole – C.A.N.D.I Youth Space Highly Commended: Leanne Hendrix – Coleford Youth Club Grassroots Voluntary Group of the Year WINNER: Sedbury Space Highly Commended: Forest Community Shed Community Organisation of the Year WINNER: SkillZone Highly Commended: Forest of Dean District Scouts Business in the Community Award WINNER: EDF Energy Highly Commended: The Rising Sun Community Pub FoD Dementia Action Alliance Inclusion Award WINNER: Cinderford Bowls Club Highly Commended: Artspace Cinderford END For media enquires contact communications@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073.

Mycelium My Networks Mental Health Project Mycelium - Forest Mental Health Project The Mycelium Project aims to create an infrastructure in the Forest of Dean that: Influences change in statutory services for mental health services and support. Provides training to build a network of Lived Experience Practitioners who will support peer workers in the healthcare and voluntary and community sector. Offers support, supervision, safeguarding, visibility, and accountability. Click on the image to find out more information: Forest of Dean Mental Health Locality Partnership Peer Development Recovery & Wellbeing Café Resource Hub/Library

FVAF Community Celebration & AGM 2023 FRIDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2024 | 11AM - 2PM Ow Bis - Forest Community Space, Dockham Road GL14 2AN We are inviting the whole community to join us in celebrating the work FVAF has done over the last 12 months for, and with communities across the Forest of Dean PLUS it’s our 30th anniversary this year and we’re ready to celebrate! Refreshments and a delicious buffet lunch will be provided. Places are limited - please book your ticket ASAP READ THE AGM NOTICE BELOW: BOOK YOUR TICKET

ਪਹੀਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਚੱਲਣਾ: ਅਕਸਰ ਪੁੱਛੇ ਜਾਂਦੇ ਸਵਾਲ 'ਟਰੈਂਪਰ' ਕੀ ਹੈ? ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਇੱਕ ਆਲ-ਟੇਰੇਨ ਇਲੈਕਟ੍ਰਿਕ ਪਾਵਰਡ ਗਤੀਸ਼ੀਲਤਾ ਵਾਹਨ ਹੈ। ਇਸਦੀ 4mph ਤੱਕ ਦੀ ਸੀਮਤ ਗਤੀ ਹੈ ਜੋ ਕਿ ਸੈਰ ਕਰਨ ਵਾਲਿਆਂ ਜਾਂ ਬਾਈਕ 'ਤੇ ਛੋਟੇ ਬੱਚਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਨਾਲ ਜਾਣ ਲਈ ਆਦਰਸ਼ ਹੈ। ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰਸ ਦੀ ਪੂਰੀ ਸਪੈਸੀਫਿਕੇਸ਼ਨ ਹੋ ਸਕਦੀ ਹੈ ਇੱਥੇ ਪਾਇਆ . ਇਸ ਸੇਵਾ ਦੀ ਵਰਤੋਂ ਕੌਣ ਕਰ ਸਕਦਾ ਹੈ? ਪਹੀਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਚੱਲਣਾ 14 ਸਾਲ ਤੋਂ ਵੱਧ ਉਮਰ ਦੇ ਅਤੇ 25 ਪੱਥਰ ਤੋਂ ਘੱਟ ਵਜ਼ਨ ਵਾਲੇ ਕਿਸੇ ਵੀ ਵਿਅਕਤੀ ਲਈ ਖੁੱਲ੍ਹਾ ਹੈ ਜਿਸ ਨੂੰ ਅਸਥਾਈ ਜਾਂ ਸਥਾਈ ਗਤੀਸ਼ੀਲਤਾ ਦੀਆਂ ਮੁਸ਼ਕਲਾਂ ਕਾਰਨ ਤੁਰਨ ਵਿੱਚ ਮੁਸ਼ਕਲ ਆਉਂਦੀ ਹੈ। ਮੈਂ ਇਸਨੂੰ ਕਿਹੜੇ ਰੂਟਾਂ 'ਤੇ ਵਰਤ ਸਕਦਾ ਹਾਂ? ਉਪਲਬਧ ਰੂਟਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਸਾਈਮੰਡਜ਼ ਯੈਟ ਰੌਕ ਅਤੇ ਸਾਈਮੰਡਜ਼ ਯੈਟ ਤੋਂ ਫੋਰੈਸਟ ਹੋਲੀਡੇਜ਼ ਅਤੇ ਸਿਰਿਲ ਹਾਰਟ ਆਰਬੋਰੇਟਮ, ਮੈਲਾਰਡਜ਼ ਪਾਈਕ ਅਤੇ ਸਪੀਚ ਹਾਊਸ ਤੋਂ ਫੈਮਲੀ ਸਾਈਕਲ ਟ੍ਰੇਲ ਦੇ ਕੁਝ ਹਿੱਸੇ ਸ਼ਾਮਲ ਹਨ। ਭਰਤੀ ਕਰਨ ਵੇਲੇ ਰੂਟਾਂ ਦੇ ਨਕਸ਼ੇ ਪ੍ਰਦਾਨ ਕੀਤੇ ਜਾਣਗੇ। ਇਹ ਕਿਰਾਏ 'ਤੇ ਲੈਣ ਲਈ ਕਦੋਂ ਉਪਲਬਧ ਹੈ? ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ ਦੇ 7 ਦਿਨ 9:00 - 5:00 ਕਿਰਾਏ 'ਤੇ ਲੈਣ ਲਈ ਉਪਲਬਧ ਹੈ (ਸਰਦੀਆਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਸ਼ਾਮ ਤੋਂ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਵਾਪਸੀ ਨੂੰ ਯਕੀਨੀ ਬਣਾਉਣ ਲਈ ਘੰਟੇ ਘੱਟ ਹੋ ਸਕਦੇ ਹਨ)। ਮੈਂ ਇੱਕ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਬੁੱਕ ਕਰ ਸਕਦਾ ਹਾਂ? ਨਿਰਾਸ਼ਾ ਤੋਂ ਬਚਣ ਲਈ, ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਦਿਨ ਤੋਂ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਆਪਣੇ ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਨੂੰ ਪ੍ਰੀ-ਬੁੱਕ ਕਰੋ। ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਬੁੱਕ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਸਿੱਧੇ ਟਰੈਂਪਰ ਸਾਈਟਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਸੰਪਰਕ ਕਰੋ। ਜੰਗਲਾਤ ਛੁੱਟੀਆਂ ਲਈ 01594 837165 'ਤੇ ਕਾਲ ਕਰੋ ਸਪੀਚ ਹਾਊਸ ਲਈ 01594 822607 'ਤੇ ਕਾਲ ਕਰੋ ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਨੂੰ ਕਿਰਾਏ 'ਤੇ ਲੈਣ ਲਈ ਕਿੰਨਾ ਖਰਚਾ ਆਉਂਦਾ ਹੈ? ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਦੀ ਕੀਮਤ ਸਿਰਫ਼ £2.50 ਪ੍ਰਤੀ ਘੰਟਾ ਹੈ। ਪਹਿਲੀ ਵਾਰ ਵਰਤੋਂਕਾਰਾਂ ਲਈ ਕੰਟਰੀਸਾਈਡ ਮੋਬਿਲਿਟੀ ਲਈ £10 ਜਾਂ ਦੋ ਹਫ਼ਤੇ ਦੇ ਟੈਸਟਰ ਸੈਸ਼ਨ ਲਈ £2.50 ਦੀ ਸਾਲਾਨਾ ਸਦੱਸਤਾ ਫੀਸ ਵੀ ਹੈ। ਜੇ ਮੈਂ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਵਿੱਚੋਂ ਇੱਕ ਦੀ ਵਰਤੋਂ ਨਹੀਂ ਕੀਤੀ ਤਾਂ ਕੀ ਹੋਵੇਗਾ? ਚਿੰਤਾ ਨਾ ਕਰੋ! ਉਹ ਚਲਾਉਣ ਲਈ ਬਹੁਤ ਹੀ ਸਰਲ ਅਤੇ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਅਤ ਹਨ ਅਤੇ ਹਰੇਕ ਉਪਭੋਗਤਾ ਨੂੰ ਇਹ ਯਕੀਨੀ ਬਣਾਉਣ ਲਈ ਇੱਕ ਪੂਰਾ ਇੰਡਕਸ਼ਨ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਜਾਵੇਗਾ ਕਿ ਉਹ ਸਾਡੇ ਸ਼ਾਨਦਾਰ ਟ੍ਰੇਲਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਨਜਿੱਠਣ ਲਈ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਅਤ ਅਤੇ ਆਰਾਮਦਾਇਕ ਮਹਿਸੂਸ ਕਰਦੇ ਹਨ। ਜੇ ਮੈਨੂੰ ਵਾਧੂ ਮਦਦ ਦੀ ਲੋੜ ਹੈ ਤਾਂ ਕੀ ਹੋਵੇਗਾ? ਅਸੀਂ ਪੁੱਛਦੇ ਹਾਂ ਕਿ ਹਰ ਕੋਈ ਟ੍ਰੇਲ 'ਤੇ ਨਾਲ ਹੋਵੇ ਤਾਂ ਜੋ ਤੁਹਾਡੇ ਕੋਲ ਹਮੇਸ਼ਾ ਕੋਈ ਨਾ ਕੋਈ ਹੋਵੇ। ਜੇਕਰ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਟਰੈਂਪਰ ਨੂੰ ਅਜ਼ਮਾਉਣਾ ਚਾਹੁੰਦੇ ਹੋ, ਤਾਂ ਕਿਸੇ ਨੂੰ ਨੌਕਰੀ 'ਤੇ ਰੱਖਣ ਤੋਂ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ, ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਸਾਡੇ ਕੇਂਦਰਾਂ ਵਿੱਚੋਂ ਇੱਕ ਨੂੰ ਕਾਲ ਕਰੋ। ਮੈਨੂੰ ਕੰਟਰੀਸਾਈਡ ਮੋਬਿਲਿਟੀ ਦਾ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਕਿਉਂ ਬਣਨਾ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ? ਕੰਟਰੀਸਾਈਡ ਮੋਬਿਲਿਟੀ ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਪ੍ਰਦਾਨ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਜ਼ਿੰਮੇਵਾਰ ਹਨ ਅਤੇ ਇਸ ਲਈ ਉਹ ਇੰਨੀ ਕਿਫਾਇਤੀ ਦਰ 'ਤੇ ਪੇਸ਼ ਕੀਤੇ ਜਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ। ਉਹ ਇਹ ਯਕੀਨੀ ਬਣਾਉਣ ਲਈ ਵੀ ਕੰਮ ਕਰਦੇ ਹਨ ਕਿ ਟਰੈਂਪਰ ਦੀ ਮੇਜ਼ਬਾਨੀ ਕਰਨ ਵਾਲੀ ਹਰ ਸਾਈਟ ਅਜਿਹਾ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਅਤ ਅਤੇ ਆਸਾਨੀ ਨਾਲ ਪਹੁੰਚਯੋਗ ਤਰੀਕੇ ਨਾਲ ਕਰਦੀ ਹੈ। ਇਹ ਸਦੱਸਤਾ ਤੁਹਾਨੂੰ ਦੱਖਣ ਪੱਛਮ ਵਿੱਚ ਕਈ ਕੰਟਰੀਸਾਈਡ ਮੋਬਿਲਿਟੀ ਸਾਈਟਾਂ 'ਤੇ ਕਿਸੇ ਵੀ ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਦੀ ਵਰਤੋਂ ਕਰਨ ਦੇ ਯੋਗ ਬਣਾਵੇਗੀ। ਵਧੇਰੇ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀ ਲਈ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਕੰਟਰੀਸਾਈਡ ਮੋਬਿਲਿਟੀ ਵੈੱਬਸਾਈਟ 'ਤੇ ਜਾਓ। ਤੁਸੀਂ ਭਰਤੀ ਕਰਨ ਤੋਂ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਕੇਂਦਰ ਵਿੱਚ ਮੈਂਬਰਸ਼ਿਪ ਫਾਰਮ ਭਰ ਸਕਦੇ ਹੋ। ਕੀ ਮੈਂ ਇਸ ਪ੍ਰੋਜੈਕਟ ਵਿੱਚ ਮਦਦ ਕਰ ਸਕਦਾ ਹਾਂ? ਵ੍ਹੀਲਜ਼ ਨਾਲ ਚੱਲਣਾ ਸਾਡੀ ਸੇਵਾ ਨੂੰ ਉਤਸ਼ਾਹਿਤ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਵਲੰਟੀਅਰਾਂ 'ਤੇ ਨਿਰਭਰ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੈ। ਜੇਕਰ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਸਾਡੀ ਸੇਵਾ ਬਾਰੇ ਗੱਲ ਫੈਲਾਉਣ ਵਿੱਚ ਮਦਦ ਕਰਨ ਵਿੱਚ ਦਿਲਚਸਪੀ ਰੱਖਦੇ ਹੋ, ਜਾਂ ਕਿਸੇ ਹੋਰ ਤਰੀਕੇ ਨਾਲ ਮਦਦ ਕਰਨਾ ਚਾਹੁੰਦੇ ਹੋ, ਤਾਂ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ 01594 822073 'ਤੇ ਕਾਲ ਕਰੋ ਜਾਂ walkingwithwheels@fvaf.org.uk 'ਤੇ ਈਮੇਲ ਕਰੋ। ਪੂਰੀ ਸਿਖਲਾਈ ਅਤੇ ਸਹਿਯੋਗ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਜਾਵੇਗਾ। ਜੇ ਮੈਨੂੰ ਬੁਕਿੰਗ ਰੱਦ ਕਰਨ ਦੀ ਲੋੜ ਹੈ ਤਾਂ ਕੀ ਹੋਵੇਗਾ? ਅਸੀਂ ਤੁਹਾਨੂੰ ਰੱਦ ਕਰਨ ਦਾ ਘੱਟੋ-ਘੱਟ 24 ਘੰਟੇ ਦਾ ਨੋਟਿਸ ਦੇਣ ਲਈ ਕਹਿੰਦੇ ਹਾਂ ਤਾਂ ਜੋ ਅਸੀਂ ਟ੍ਰੈਂਪਰ ਨੂੰ ਕਿਸੇ ਹੋਰ ਉਪਭੋਗਤਾ ਨੂੰ ਕਿਰਾਏ 'ਤੇ ਦੇ ਸਕੀਏ। ਰੱਦ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰਕੇ ਉਸ ਸਾਈਟ ਨਾਲ ਸੰਪਰਕ ਕਰੋ ਜਿਸ ਨਾਲ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਬੁੱਕ ਕੀਤੀ ਹੈ What is a Tramper Who can use this service What routes can I use it on When is it available to hire How can I book one How much does it cost What if I've never used one of these before What if I need additional help Why do I have to become a member of CM Can I help wit this project What if I need to cancel a booking

Tell us what training would help your organisation We're exploring how best to support the training needs of voluntary and community groups across the Forest of Dean. This might include hosting training ourselves, bringing in external trainers, or connecting you with existing resources and courses. Please complete this brief survey to let us know what would be most valuable for you. Your feedback will shape the support we're able to offer. Organisation Name: Your Role: Email Training Topics Which of the following topics would be most valuable for your organisation? (Please tick all that apply and add any others) Funding & Fundraising Marketing & PR Digital Skills/Using Technology Financial Procedures & Management Governance & Trustees Finding & Recruiting Volunteers Volunteer Management & Retention Embedding Climate Action Neurodiversity, Mental Health & Inclusion Safeguarding First Aid Health & Safety Food Hygiene Other Let us know your TOP 3 training needs: When Which days work best for you? (Tick all that apply) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Preferred times: (Tick all that apply) Morning (9am-12pm) Afternoon (1pm-5pm) Evening (6pm-8pm) Where How would you prefer to attend training? (Tick all that apply) In-person only Online only Hybrid (option to attend either way) No preference If in-person: Forest of Dean only Willing to travel How Which learning formats work best for you? (Tick all that apply) Workshops (group sessions) Online webinars/courses One-to-one support/mentoring Drop-in sessions Self-paced resources Peer learning/networking groups 5. Additional Information Are there any barriers that prevent you from accessing training? (e.g., cost, time, childcare, accessibility needs) Any other comments or suggestions? Submit

FOREST VOLUNTEER AWARDS IT'S VOTING TIME! The PUBLIC VOTE is now OPEN for Volunteer of the Year 2025 - The People's Champion! VOTING CLOSES: MIDNIGHT WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST 2025 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 Carol Austin – Sedbury Space Laura Dovey – Taurus Crafts Annie George – Forest Exchange Ian Gower – CANDI, Mitcheldean Youth Club, Scarr Bandstand Glynis Halling – The Victoria Centre, Lydney Dial-a-Ride, Dr Charley's Lunch Club Julie Holder – Packed with Love Submit Find out why these amazing volunteers were nominated below: CAROL AUSTIN Sedbury Space Carol leads one of the Forest's busiest community groups at Sedbury Space, welcoming 30+ members weekly with exceptional care and dedication. LAURA DOVEY Taurus Crafts For an incredible twenty years, Laura has been the welcoming face of Taurus Crafts in Lydney, greeting every customer with genuine warmth and enthusiasm ANNIE GEORGE Forest Exchange Annie is the organisational powerhouse behind Forest Exchange (formerly Lydney Exchange), working tirelessly to help as many people as possible through this vital community resource.. Her personal touch makes all the difference – she ensures every member receives a birthday card and personally checks on anyone who's been absent for two weeks. Carol's generous spirit extends beyond her volunteer duties as she steps in to cover extra sessions, ensures no one feels excluded, and has a remarkable gift for helping shy members feel included without them even realising it. Her warm, energetic presence and unwavering commitment to helping others makes her an exceptional volunteer who truly goes above and beyond. Working across both the gift shop and Zero Waste shop, Laura's reliability and attention to detail shine through in everything she does – from pricing and checking invoices to ensuring packing materials are properly recycled. Her outstanding customer service skills and diligent approach make her a joy to work with, while her caring, helpful nature brings smiles to everyone she meets. Laura's two decades of unwavering commitment exemplifies the very best in community volunteering. Her incredible work ethic is evident whether she's moving heavy boxes, washing donated clothes, implementing efficient labelling systems, or lifting spirits with her amazing sense of humour. Over the past two and a half years, Annie has played a crucial role in the Exchange's remarkable growth from strength to strength. Though she's moving away to be closer to family, her unique approach to helping individuals and her invaluable contributions have left a lasting impact on the Forest community. IAN GOWER Mitcheldean Youth Club, CANDI, Scarr Bandstand Ian's volunteer work spans multiple organisations, making him a true Forest community champion through his support at CANDI, Mitcheldean Youth Hub, Scarr Bandstand, and the Forest of Dean History Society. GLYNIS HALLING The Victoria Centre, Lydney Dial-a-Ride, Dr Charley's Lunch Club For over 25 years, Glynis has been the driving force behind vital community services, serving as chief organiser and fundraiser for the Victoria Centre and previously Lydney Dial-a-Ride. JULIE HOLDER Packed with Love Julie is the inspirational driving force behind Packed with Love, a remarkable not-for-profit initiative that packs 180 backpacks for children in emergency care. Drawing on his engineering background with Rolls Royce, Ian creates engaging STEM workshops and provides maths tutoring that makes learning both fun and educational for young people. His understanding, kind, and caring approach toward young people, combined with his wealth of knowledge, makes him an exceptional mentor. Ian's dedication to his community is evident in how nothing is ever too much trouble, and his willingness to go out of his way to support the young people and various groups he serves. Her exceptional admin skills, creative vision, and ongoing dedication have been essential to these organisations' success. Glynis also volunteered for 13 years at Dr Charley's lunch club in Coleford, serving as Treasurer and later taking leadership after founder Dora Matthews passed away. Her commitment to community service has touched countless lives across the Forest, providing the "essential oil for the wheels" of much-valued services that bring people together and support those in need. Her tireless dedication encompasses every aspect of the operation – organising jumble sales and book sales, seeking donations, storing items in her own home, purchasing necessary supplies, coordinating the packing process, and ensuring distribution reaches those who need it most. Julie's work directly impacts vulnerable children during some of their most difficult moments, providing them with essential items and a tangible reminder that their community cares. Her selfless commitment transforms donations into hope for children facing uncertain times.

Volunteer Heroes Crowned! The community turned out in force on Wednesday 7 September to see local volunteers crowned at a glittering awards celebration evening we held at the AccXel Training Centre in Cinderford. We created the Forest Volunteer Awards to recognise and celebrate the amazing efforts of local volunteers in the Forest of Dean. Earlier this Summer, we asked local people to nominate those volunteer heroes who have demonstrated exceptional and outstanding support to the local community over the past 12 months. The response was amazing and we received hundreds of nominations. An expert panel had the tough task of shortlisting the nominations and picking the winners. However, one category - Volunteer of the Year – Peoples’ Champion – was decided by a public vote with almost 900 votes cast. The winners were crowned at a special evening, held at the stunning conference space at the impressive AccXel Training Centre, which was provided for free to FVAF by local construction company the KW Bell Group, who were the main sponsors of the event. Volunteer of the Year went to Les Cockle, volunteer fundraiser at Great Oaks Hospice whilst Forest of Dean Host Ukrainians and Ukraine Community Hub jointly picked up the Community Voluntary Group of the Year. Young volunteers were celebrated with Keira Stone, volunteer at disability group, Together We Can crowed under 16 years old Young Volunteer of the Year, whilst in the 17 – 25 years old category, Chloe Whatley and Jordan Terrel were rewarded for their tireless hard work volunteering at the Sea Cadets in Lydney. Lisa Tootell was crowned Outstanding New Volunteer of the Year for her amazing impact for the Girl Guides in the Forest of Dean and Hips Social were recognised for supporting the local community and investing in improving the local area. The winners were presented with an award, a framed certificate and £100 Amazon voucher, kindly provided by sponsors the KW Bell Group. Deb Cook, Volunteering Manager at FVAF said “So much of what happens within our community is because of people who give their time and energy for free. We think that recognising the amazing efforts of volunteers and organisations is incredibly important which is why we have been so pleased by the reaction of the local people who have supported these awards by nominating and voting.” Deb added, “It has been an incredible evening and we are so lucky and proud of the strength of the amazing voluntary sector we have in the Forest.” Master of Ceremony for the Forest Volunteer Awards was Kate Clark, BBC Radio Gloucestershire presenter who kept the guests entertained with her expert hosting skills. Award winners were announced by guest presenter; Roger Deeks (FVAF Trustee), Nicola Bird and Yvonne Bell (KW Bell and main sponsor), Sue Middleton (Verderer of the Forest of Dean), Andy Lewis MBE (PT2 Para triathlete), Neill Ricketts (Founder of Versarien and chair the Forest of Dean Economic Partnership). The celebration evening was made possible thanks to generous sponsorship for the following local organisations: KW Bell Group and AccXel Training Centre – main sponsors Hot Tubs Rock Versarien The Midcounties Co- Operative FOREST VOLUNTEER AWARD WINNERS: Volunteer of the Year – Peoples’ Champion WINNER: Les Cockle – Great Oaks Hospice Highly Commended: Hannah McGowan (FOD Hosts of Ukrainians Support Group), Martin Elsmore (The Golden Triangle Club), Steve Gregory (FVAF / Walking with Wheels) and Mark Jones (Community First Responder SWASFT) Community Voluntary Group of the Year WINNER: FOD Hosts of Ukrainians Support Group and Ukraine Community Hub Highly Commended: Together We Can, Newnham Archery Club, Dean Radio, The Friends of Longhope Church and The Rewild Project Outstanding New Volunteer WINNER: Lisa Tootell – Girlguiding FOD South Division Highly Commended: Sarah Maxfield – Berry Hill Memorial Institute Young Volunteer of the Year 16yrs & under WINNER: Keira Stone – Together We Can Highly Commended: Toby Niblett – Lydney Youth Hub Young Volunteer of the Year 17 – 25yrs JOINT WINNERS: Jordan Terrell and Chloe Whatley – FOD Sea Cadets Community Impact Award WINNER: HIPs Social Highly Commended: Recycle Shop CIC Newent and Wilde Earth Journeys

Summer Holiday Activities & Food We’ve teamed up with Gloucestershire Cou nty Counci l and arranged a packed timetable of FREE fun! The HAF programme is open to all school aged children, who live in the Forest of Dean, and who qualify for free school meals. If funding allows, s ometimes activities are extended and offered to all children and young people across Gloucestershire through the Holiday Activities Programme (HAP). There's something for eve ryone - we've got sports clubs, cooking, crafts, play sessions an d so much more... You need to be registered to book | All sessions mus t be pre bo oke d REGISTER HERE For information or support with the HAF Spring programme contact: HAFParentEnquiries@gloucestershire.gov.uk or ring the HAF helpline on 01452 427960. BOOKING NOW OPEN! CHECK OUT THE TIMETABLE **PLEASE NOTE: You can only book 4 activities at a time - please wait 24 hours before you book again** For more information visit the Gloucestershire County Council website here

Mycelium My Networks Mental Health Project Mycelium - Forest Mental Health Project Structure The Forest Community of Practice Forest of Dean Mental Health Locality Partnership Recovery and Wellbeing Café The Resources Hub & Library The Forest Community of Practice Monthly face-to-face learning collaborative, reflective practice & peer supervision. 2nd Tuesday each month. The Forest Community of Practice is for individuals working and volunteering with members of our community where support for mental health is a significant part of their role. This has been set up in response to the My Networks Scoping Project. Many local social care practitioners stated that they wished to receive ongoing support to develop reflective practice, link with others and build skills that would help them to become more confident responding to mental distress, particularly with the increasing complexities that they were coming across in their roles. The C of P will be supported by clinicians, professionals and lived experience practitioners from the VCS & NHS who have been involved in the Community Mental Health Transformation programme. It will provide an opportunity for collaborative learning, peer supervision and professional development. We hope a community of Forest mental health practitioners will emerge from these sessions. If you, or a mental health champion from your team, are interested and able to join us, please get in touch. Please get in touch if you have any questions or want the most current information about scheduling details - simon@fvaf.org.uk or text 07394 945046 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. 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. Recovery & Wellbeing Café - Current Programme The Resource Hub, Research Room & Lived Experience Library Leaflets & literature on wellness, recovery, self-help & coping with mental distress. The group office, based above the Library at The Main Place in Coleford, is available for members to use as a safe and confidential space. We keep material that may be of use to members – and we are happy for people to provide us with leaflets that they would like shared. To read the My Networks Scoping Project Report please visit: www.fvaf.org.uk/publications