Ходьба на колесах Використовуйте один із Всюдихідні скутери, щоб дістатися до красивих лісових стежок зі своєю родиною та друзями, незалежно від ваших можливостей ходити. The Ліс Діна є визнаним центром пішохідних та велосипедних прогулянок і добре обслуговується стежками та іншим доступом із покриттям. Однак для людей з фізичними вадами, поганим здоров’ям, сенсорними порушеннями чи іншим гальмуючим станом може знадобитися певна технічна допомога, спеціалізований переклад або інші відповідні засоби масової інформації, щоб вони могли користуватися перевагами, які інші сприймають як належне. Це Ліс лісників Проект, що фінансується Heritage Lottery, співпрацюючи з Сільська мобільність надає можливості для більшої кількості людей отримати доступ до Лісу Діна. Walking with Wheels пропонує скутери для пересування по всій місцевості (так звані Trampers) напрокат у Forest Holidays у Крайстчерчі та готелі Speech House. Бродяги доступні для попередньо нанесених на карту маршрутів, з яких відкриваються краєвиди Саймондс Ят, Біблінс, дендрарій Сіріла Харта та озеро Крижень Пайк, і це лише деякі з них. Якщо ви хочете дізнатися більше про ходьбу на колесах, зателефонуйте за номером 01594 822073 або зв'яжіться з нами по електронній пошті . Питання що часто задаються Що таке «Бродяга»? Хто може скористатися цією послугою? На яких маршрутах я можу використовувати його? Коли його можна взяти напрокат? Як я можу забронювати? Скільки коштує найняти бродяга? Що робити, якщо я ніколи раніше не використовував їх? Що робити, якщо мені потрібна додаткова допомога? Чому я маю стати учасником Countryside Mobility? Чи можу я допомогти з цим проектом? Що робити, якщо мені потрібно скасувати бронювання? Frequently Asked Questions

EVENTS CALENDAR Check out the latest hip happenings in the Forest!

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.

Про FVAF Наша історія Ми – Рада волонтерської служби та Волонтерський центр Деканського лісу. Ми надаємо допомогу багатьом із сотень волонтерських та громадських організацій району, які, у свою чергу, можуть краще виконувати свою роботу в місцевій громаді та для неї. З моменту створення в 1994 році ми здобули репутацію заохочення, охоплення та посилення дій громади в Лісі Діна. Ми віримо, що завдяки підходам, які керуються громадою, ми дозволяємо громадянам розвивати навички, стійкість і соціальний капітал, щоб жити щасливішим життям із кращими зв’язками. Офісні послуги Персонал та довірені особи Політика Доступність і стійкість

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

Volunteer of the Year 2023 T he People's Champion VOTING OPEN! Time to choose your champion... We recently asked you to nominate a local volunteer who has gone above and beyond for their community over the past 12 months, and/or has an inspiring story. We had some cracking nominations, and it was an extremely hard task to narrow it down BUT after much deliberation, our panel of community experts have shortlisted 7 community heroes. Vote for your favourite by selecting ONE of the following volunteers: Chris Brain Melanie Getgood Jando Greco Edna Husbands Barbara Jenkins Albert Weager Dave Young VOTING CLOSES: 10PM SUNDAY, 17 SEPTEMBER VOTE Thanks for voting! Check out the profiles of the shortlisted nominees below: Chris Brain Chairman & Coach of Broadwell Youth Football Club For the past 15 years Chris has dedicated a huge amount of his time, energy and passion into grassroots sports. A constant supporter and instrumental in the ongoing success of Broadwell Football Club, Chris has served as the Chairman of the club and more recently 2 and half years as the First Team Manager. The pinnacle of his successful coaching term came last year when Chris led his side to Les James Cup victory. Going out on a high, Chris has just retired and deserves recognition for his dedication and commitment which has provided the opportunity for 100’s of children to play football and helped to create the thriving community football club Broadwell FC has become. Melanie Getgood Chairperson at Friends of Worcester Walk Melanie has been the inspirational driving force of Friends of Worcester Walk (FoWW). Her steadfast commitment to Worcester Walk has seen it develop into a unique richly diverse habitat in the Forest of Dean. Melainie goes the extra mile to share the experience of being in nature, through events with school groups, volunteers, and local people. With her generous inclusive way, she has built a solid and diverse group of volunteers for FoWW and ensures that everyone is welcome, and their work appreciated. Melanie’s community work doesn’t end there! She is also a co-opted member of the Environmental Committee of Coleford Town Council, helps run a local Morris Dancing group, has organised clean ups in the Coleford Cemetery, King George Playing Field and Bells Field. Melanie works tirelessly for community but is always friendly, approachable, kind and generous with her time and with everyone she meets. Jando Greco Volunteer helper at St Stephen's Church Cinderford Jando is a fantastic example of the impact volunteering can have for the community, and in growing as a person. For the past twelve years, Jando has supported St Stephen’s Church through his involvement with many projects, services, events and prayer groups. Jando is often found setting up and tidying after events or keeping the church tidy midweek between services. He helps with the Fairtrade Stall and Fairtrade Friday coffee afternoons, and is a leader at Messy Church. Usually the first to put his hand up to help, like many volunteers, much of what Jando does is 'behind the scenes' and unseen. But that doesn't bother him at all, he just loves volunteering his time, feeling part of a community and growing his skills as well as sharing his talents with others. His nominator said that: “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 and would love for him to be recognised for his service!” Edna Husbands Lydcare Community Transport Co-ordinator at Lydcare An essential member of the team, Edna is responsible for organising Lydcare Community Transport Service. A complex and demanding role, on average Edna deals with over 120 calls from people who request transport and with drivers to arrange journeys. Edna's role requires a massive commitment both in time and energy and requires a high degree of patience and diplomacy dealing with last minute medical appointments, cancellations and reschedules. Thanks to her tireless work over 4,000 journeys are completed every year, helping over 2,700 people get to hospital, medical appointments and social events which due the lack of public transport would be impossible. Lydcare was the only community transport service running through the pandemic and this was down to Edna's determination and commitment to ensure patients, particularly those who usually received home visits, were able to get to important medical appointments. Edna also works as a voluntary driver and is an outstanding volunteer working for the benefit of those in need within the community. Barbara Jenkins Organiser of the ‘Over Sixties Group’ Berryhill Memorial Institute AKA ‘The Hut’ It would be hard to find a volunteer in the Forest with a longer commitment to volunteering in the community than Barbara! For over 50 years, Barbara has been the lead organiser of the ‘Over Sixties Group’ at the ‘The Hut’ Berryhill Memorial Institute. This popular group has been providing social activities to help combat isolation for the older community for decades. Collecting community memories for a recent memory capsule, created as part of The Hut’s centenary celebrations, revealed that Barbara had been quietly managing this group since 1971. But Barbara’s involvement with The Hut goes even further back to her childhood when her father was resident caretaker, and her mother was involved in organising activities. A wonderful and unique example of generations getting involved with the community to make it a better place, Barbara is an inspiration to us all and shows no sign of slowing down. Albert Weager Community representative & advocate for better healthcare in FoD A more committed and dedicated community representative than Albert would be hard to find! For over a decade Albert has tirelessly advocated for better health provision in the Forest of Dean. With an incredibly long service on the FoD Health Forum, in 2014 he was appointed chair and has been instrumental in ensuring that everyone is listened to and given the opportunity to ask questions. At a county level, Albert chairs the People and Communities Reference Group for Urgent and Emergency Care and is the community representative on the Urgent and Emergency Care, Patient Flow Clinical Programme Group. Not stopping there, Albert is also represents local people on the Ageing Well Care Programme Board and has been the patient representative on the Blood Transfusion Committee for over ten years. Everything Albert does is as a volunteer and we must congratulate him on his drive and passion. Dave Young Volunteer driver, cook, outreach at Forest Sensory Services & Samaritans Over the past 2 years Dave has dedicated more and more of his time volunteering and going above and beyond to support other people. Starting as a volunteer driver for Forest Sensory Services (FFS), Dave now volunteers with FSS 3 times a week and even dons his chef hat and cooks up a delicious feast, twice a month, for the service’s clients. A fantastic supporter of all the work that FSS does, Dave plays an active role in outreach sessions to make visually impaired people aware of the support services offered and he also helps with fundraising. Along with his face-to-face volunteering, Dave volunteers with the Samaritans answering the phone a couple of times a week offering emotional support . Plus promoting Samaritans with outreach in the community. His nominator said: “Dave is an inspiring person and an amazing volunteer who does so much for other people.” Find our more about the Forest Volunteers Awards here:

Our publications Forest Compass Edition 3 Volunteering in the Forest of Dean FVAF Annual Report 2022/23 FVAF Annual Report 2021/22 Insights into the Experience of commissioning for small VCSE organisations in the Forest of Dean By Chris Brown My Networks publications My Networks Scoping Project Report, Oct 2022 by Simon Price Supporting documents: Mental Health Scoping Project – Survey Results Co-production – How we facilitated My Networks Scoping Report Useful community publications The Digital Divides Report and Recommendations By Digital Divides Steering Group Learnings from the Forest By Forest of Dean Climate Action Partnership (FODCAP), Holding The Space, Thirty Percy, and CCRI.

Форум коннекторів спільноти - Знай свою мережу виправлення Supporting Strong and Thriving Communities with Know Your Patch Підтримуйте сильні та процвітаючі спільноти за допомогою програми Know Your Patch Частина «Знай свій патч» Форуму спільнотних коннекторів (CCF) об’єднує волонтерський та громадський сектор, статутні служби та місцевих жителів у спосіб, який створює кращі способи роботи. Мережа «Знай свій патч» «Ліс Діна» розроблена для того, щоб об’єднати волонтерський та громадський сектор, законні служби та місцевих жителів таким чином, щоб створити кращі способи роботи, що зрештою зміцнить наші громади. Ця «пропозиція громади» є особливо важливою для запобігання або відстрочення ескалації медичних потреб. Ми щокварталу проводимо заходи в Лісі Діна, де ми запрошуємо зацікавлених сторін приєднатися до обговорення того, що важливо в їхній громаді та як служби та групи добровільного сектору можуть допомогти цьому підтримати. Кожна подія Know Your Patch БЕЗКОШТОВНА і відкрита для всіх, хто хоче бути частиною бесіди. Якщо ви бажаєте взяти участь, зателефонуйте за номером 01594 822073 або електронною поштою help4groups@fvaf.org.uk . Ми також регулярно надсилаємо електронні листи та оновлюємо інформацію про те, що відбувається в Лісі Діна. Якщо ви хочете приєднатися до цієї мережі, підпишіться тут . Завдяки фінансуванню від Рада графства Глостершир , «Знай свій патч» також доступний у кожному іншому окрузі графства Глостершир. Якщо ви хочете дізнатися більше про них, відвідайте тут . Ось деякі з досліджень, які підкреслюють наше мислення: «Ми всі маємо відігравати певну роль у допомозі особам і громадам у розвитку соціального капіталу. Зростає визнання того, що, незважаючи на те, що у неблагополучних соціальних групах і спільнотах є ряд складних і взаємопов’язаних потреб, вони також мають активи на соціальному та громадському рівні. які можуть допомогти покращити здоров’я та зміцнити стійкість до проблем зі здоров’ям» (The Kings Fund, 2018) «Ті, хто мав адекватні соціальні стосунки, мали на 50 відсотків більший рівень виживання в порівнянні з особами з поганими соціальними стосунками» (Holt-Lunstad et al 2010). «Показано, що соціальні мережі є такими ж потужними провісниками смертності, як і звичайний спосіб життя та клінічні ризики, такі як помірне куріння, надмірне вживання алкоголю, ожиріння, високий рівень холестерину та кров’яного тиску» (Pantell et al 2013; Holt-Lunstad et al, 2010) . «Соціальна підтримка особливо важлива для підвищення стійкості та сприяння одужанню після хвороби» (Певалін і Роуз, 2003) «Відсутність соціальних мереж і підтримки ускладнює саморегулювання поведінки та формування сили волі та стійкості з часом, що призводить до нездорової поведінки» (Cacioppo and Patrick 2009). «Участь у спільноті зменшує ізоляцію, відчуження та самотність» (Farrell and Bryant 2009; Sevigny et al 2010; Ryan-Collins et al 2008) «Сильний соціальний капітал покращує шанси уникнути ризиків, пов’язаних із способом життя, наприклад, курінням» (Folland 2008; Brown et al, 2006) Spring/Summer Programme 2025 Welcome back to the Spring/Summer 2025 sessions in the Forest Know Your Patch network. We continue with the mixture of shorter sessions (from 10-11am) and longer sessions (from 10am until noon) - providing the opportunity for a more in-depth look at topics. The latter also provide a platform for attendees to share information about their work and current developments and partnerships. We have included a live event in Cinderford, in the heart of the Forest, at the end of May, and look forward to meeting as many of you as possible at that networking event. 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. PROGRAMME 2025 Late Spring/Early Summer April 29th – 10-11am: Health in the Forest - Rethink/Great Oaks Hospice May 13th – 10-11am: Forest Food Network May 27th (tbc) IN-PERSON: Forest Digital Forest Showcase with Alex Digby June 10th – 10-11am Partnership Development - Integrated Care Board - Community Catalysts & Physical Health Self-Management June 24th – 10 - 11am: Join us for a “Virtual Cuppa” – And Help to Shape Know Your Patch in the Future July 8th – 10am - 12noon: Family Hubs in the Forest July 22nd – 10 - 11am : Holiday Provision for Children & Families All meetings are online via MS TEAMS except 27th May - further details about this event will be sent in due course.

COMING SOON! Universal Youth Services We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership to bring 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 will be 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. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to be part of something amazing! FIND OUT MORE ABOUT... Gloucestershire Gateway Trust The Venture Community Hub

Лісова молодіжна асоціація Молодіжна асоціація Forest of Dean пропонує допомогу та підтримку молоді та молодіжним клубам, групам чи організаціям. Завести нових друзів Приєднуйтесь до своєї спільноти Переслідуйте інтерес Спробуйте щось нове Отримайте нові навички Волонтер Зробіть світ кращим Волонтерство Є багато можливостей для волонтерства як для молоді, так і для дорослих. Якщо ви молода людина, яка шукає волонтерської роботи у вільний час, щоб отримати більше навичок або як частина вашої програми DofE, зателефонуйте нам або відвідайте https://do-it.org/ Так само, якщо ви доросла людина, яка має навички та знання, або бажаєте підтримати молодіжну організацію в Лісі Діна, будь ласка, зв’яжіться з нами, оскільки є багато організацій, які вдячні б за вашу підтримку. Партнерське членство для вашого клубу/організації Приєднавшись до Молодіжної асоціації Forest of Dean, ви матимете право на весь спектр наших послуг, які пропонують поради та підтримку в усіх аспектах управління такою організацією, як ваша. Ми також ведемо календар заходів, у яких ваші волонтери та молодь можуть брати участь за символічну плату. Щоб отримати повну інформацію про переваги або зареєструвати свій клуб, натисніть на наступні посилання Переваги членства молодіжної асоціації для клубів Форма членства в клубах молодіжної асоціації Контактні дані для отримання додаткової інформації Якщо ви хочете дізнатися більше про будь-який з наших проектів чи заходів або як взяти участь, будь ласка, зв’яжіться з нашим спеціалістом з розвитку молодіжних асоціацій, Алетеєю Бампстед на FodYouthAssociation@fvaf.org.uk For More Information If you would like to know about any of our projects or events or how to get involved, please get in touch with us at hi.ya @fvaf.org.uk Фінансова підтримка Молодіжна асоціація Forest of Dean з гордістю отримує фінансову підтримку від міських рад Сіндерфорда та Колфорда. Якщо ваша парафіяльна чи міська рада хоче дізнатися більше про молодіжну асоціацію Forest of Dean або як ви можете підтримати нас, будь ласка, зв’яжіться з нами електронною поштою FodYouthAssociation@fvaf.org.uk

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

Volunteer of the Year 2024 The People's Champion VOTING OPEN! Time to choose your champion... We recently asked you to nominate a local volunteer who has gone above and beyond for their community over the past 12 months, and/or has an inspiring story. We had some cracking nominations, and it was an extremely hard task to narrow it down BUT after much deliberation, our panel of community experts have shortlisted 6 community heroes. Vote for your favourite by selecting ONE of the following volunteers: Liz Bell Pete Harper Elaine Quirk Lisa Robertson Sarah Wootton Emily Worrall VOTING CLOSES: MIDNIGHT MONDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER VOTE Thanks for voting! Check out the profiles of the shortlisted nominees below: Liz Bell Orchard Trust Site volunteer and Trustee Liz Bell has been a cornerstone of the Orchard Trust since she began volunteering at the Stowfield site in 2021. Her dedication and passion quickly became evident, leading her to take on the role of Trustee in 2022. Liz’s contributions extend far beyond her weekly volunteering; she has played a pivotal role in shaping the site and enhancing its value to the community. As a volunteer, Liz has taken charge of maintaining the sensory garden, apple tree circle, and general site upkeep. After spending time immersed in the environment, she began offering innovative ideas to improve it, always with the visitors' experience in mind. One of her most notable achievements was serving as the Volunteer Project Manager for the wildlife area. Liz not only designed and wrote the proposal for this project but also worked closely with the Stowfield site manager to ensure it was delivered on time and within budget—all in her own free time. Liz’s vision and hard work has helped to create a lasting community asset that is accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages, especially those who often face barriers to engaging with nature. Pete Harper Mycelium Mental Health Project Volunteer Pete Harper is the quiet force behind the success of the Mycelium Mental Health Project, a volunteer whose impact is felt far beyond the boundaries of the project itself. Described by his nominator as "one of the most humble and knowledgeable people I have ever met," Pete’s dedication and passion for mutual aid have been instrumental in establishing and nurturing Mycelium. Pete’s extraordinary commitment is matched by his generosity. He has been a steadfast supporter, working tirelessly to ensure the project's success. His influence extends beyond Mycelium, as he has become a vital advocate for our community’s mental health. Pete Harper is not just an extraordinary volunteer; he is a true champion for mental health, whose quiet strength and unwavering commitment continue to uplift and inspire all those around him. His work with Mycelium has created a lasting impact, ensuring that the most vulnerable in our community have a voice and a compassionate ally. Elaine Quirk Volunteer helper for Gloucestershire Carers Hub Elaine Quirk is the heart and soul of the Gloucestershire Carers Hub, where she serves as a Carer Welcomer at Bickys Carer Café in Coleford and Candi in Cinderford. With her gentle and kind demeanour, Elaine ensures that every unpaid carer who walks through the door feels truly welcomed and supported. Elaine has a remarkable ability to make people feel valued. Carers who attend the sessions she hosts often leave with a renewed sense of being heard, respected, and encouraged to share their experiences. Her presence has significantly increased footfall at Bickys during quieter times and helped Candi engage with new clients, extending the reach of the Carers Hub in meaningful ways. Elaine’s work goes beyond welcoming carers—it’s about creating a supportive space where they can find comfort and community. Her dedication to helping others has made a lasting difference in the lives of many, and her warm presence is an essential part of the Carers Hub’s success. Lisa Robertson Ruardean Youth Leader For nearly 20 years, Lisa Robertson has been the heart and soul of Ruardean Youth Club, dedicating countless hours of her free time to creating a safe, fun, and supportive environment for youth people aged 11-18. Under Lisa’s guidance, the Youth Club has become a vital resource for the community, offering a wide range of activities, advice, and information to help teenagers navigate their challenges. Lisa’s impact on the lives of hundreds of children and young people in Ruardean is immeasurable. She is known for her selfless dedication, always going above and beyond to ensure that the Youth Club not only thrives but also continues to meet the evolving needs of the community and every young person who walks through the door. Her contributions extend far beyond the Youth Club. Lisa also played a key role in organising the annual Ruardean Carnival and most recently, Lisa has spearheaded the creation of the Ruardean Community Orchard. Lisa’s tireless efforts and deep commitment to her community make her an extraordinary volunteer and a true inspiration. Her work has left a lasting legacy in Ruardean, enriching the lives of countless young people and helping to build a stronger, more connected community. Sarah Wootton Chair of the Committee - Brockweir Village Shop & Café As the Chair of the Committee for Brockweir Village Shop & Café, Sarah Wootton has been a pillar of strength and leadership for her community. When a devastating fire struck the shop in June 2023, Sarah immediately took charge, and with the help of the amazing committee and employees, Ferne and Kris, coordinated efforts to ensure the swift and successful rebuilding of this vital community hub. Sarah's dedication has been unwavering—she handled complex negotiations with the insurance company and loss adjustor, navigated the flood of daily emails, and provided steadfast support to the shop's staff and volunteers. Her commitment didn’t end with reopening the shop; she has continued to offer guidance and encouragement to everyone involved, helping them navigate the challenges that followed the fire. Sarah's efforts have ensured that even in the face of adversity, the shop, which serves as a cornerstone of the village is not just a place to shop—it’s a lifeline for locals and visitors alike. Emily Worrall Volunteer fundraiser at Great Oaks Hospice Emily Worrall is an invaluable member of the fundraising team at Great Oaks Hospice, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a contagious positivity to everything she does. With her bright smile and can-do attitude, Emily ensures that the Hospice’s events are well-publicised, tirelessly delivering and posting event posters across all the Forest. Her dedication doesn’t stop there—Emily is always on hand at events, whether it’s setting up, taking down, or even getting the party started with her infectious dance moves at discos. Emily’s journey is truly inspiring. Despite facing learning difficulties, she has worked hard to live independently, and her contributions to the team go far beyond her tasks. Emily is more than just a volunteer; she is a cherished member of the Great Oaks Hospice family. Find our more about the Forest Volunteers Awards here: