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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:

Our Green Impact Our Statement of Intent At a time of ongoing critical assessment as to how the resources of the world are being employed in economic and social activity, it is essential that all involved with Forest Voluntary Action Forum (FVAF) have a clear understanding as to how its work can impact on the environment. We accept responsibility for our actions and commit to working towards reducing any harmful effects it may have on the environment. It is also understood that, as a leader in the Forest of Dean voluntary and community sector, we have a responsibility to manifest best practice. We will use, as its guiding principles - in order of priority – the need to: REPAIR RE-USE REDUCE RECYCLE Our policy describes how FVAF will implement practices that will minimalize the impact of its work on the environment. FVAF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY Gold Award from the GEM NUS-Green Impact challenge GEM NUS Green Imapct Gold Award Certificate NUS Green Imapct Community Award Certificate In our first year taking part in the GEM NUS Green Impact Challenge , we were delighted to achieve a Gold Award. This UN award winning programme is designed to support and challenge organisations to look at the way they work and ensure that the practices they follow are as environmentally and socially sustainable as possible. The challenge was set as part of the *GEM Project’s partnership and our joint commitment to living sustainably and minimising our impact on the environment. Working together as a team, we shared ideas and encouraged lifestyle changes in the following areas: use of water and energy travel – work and personal recycling reducing and dealing with waste upcycling, freecycling unused goods using sustainable products encouraging biodiversity Other creative ideas from the team included making bird feeders from broken tree branches, a homemade recipe for a cleaning product, donations to local charity shops. * The Going the Extra Mile Project (GEM) is an employability and social inclusion project supporting the most disadvantaged communities and individuals furthest from the labour market to find or get closer to employment. It is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and European Social Fund as part of a national programme Building Better Opportunities.

Current Opportunities Many local organisations, across the Forest of Dean, are currently looking for trustees with a variety of skills & experience: LYDNEY DIAL-A-RIDE Lydney Dial-a-Ride is a friendly door-to-door transport service for those people who do not have their own transport and are unable to use public transport. They operate a fleet of fully accessible minibuses capable of carrying wheelchair passengers and other seated passengers. Trustee role: They are looking for people who have HR experience, managing a small to medium organisation or wishing to make a difference in their local community. The Trustees meet every other month and keep in regular contact via email and telephone. Chat louise@lydneydialaride.co.uk | 01594 843809 EARLYBIRDS PLAYGROUP Earlybirds Playgroup are a local charity-based playgroup offering education for early years children from 2 to 4 years old. Established in January 1999, it is the aim of the committee and staff to keep it running successfully for many more years. Located in Cinderford in the Forest of Dean, all members of staff are qualified to a high level and have many years of experience of working within young children; they attend regular safeguarding, first aid and continuing professional development training which allows them to support each child in their development and well-being. Trustee role: Currently that have a committee with 7 trustees but are looking to expand and would welcome anyone with IT skills, finance, marketing, or legal along with anyone with an interest in early years education. Chat earlybirdschair@yahoo.com or 07553215307 ST BRIAVELS ASSEMBLY ROOMS The St Briavels Assembly Rooms are a village hall built for the benefit of the parishioners of St Briavels, Hewelsfield and Brockweir. The Rooms consist of a main hall with stage, a bar/cafe area a commercial kitchen, a meeting room/office and a walled courtyard. Activities at the Rooms include lettings to local groups and private individuals, a regular tearoom, events with a bar, a produce market and a 100 Club lottery. Trustees meet about every 6 weeks, or about 8 times a year. The Trustees, who are not remunerated, also volunteer as much as they can and are supported by a team of community volunteers who help to deliver the key services. Trustee role: Looking for Trustees who can contribute knowledge, expertise and volunteer time especially in the following areas: Event management: co-ordinating the creation and delivery of an annual programme of events Minutes Secretary: taking minutes at Trustee meetings. Chat sbar.helpers@gmail.com LOVE DRYBROOK TRUST The Love Drybrook Trust raises money through trading at the Shop on the Cross in the centre of Drybrook. This is a charity shop run by enthusiastic volunteers and selling mainly to local people. They also offer a small coffee and chat area within the shop. Money raised is distributed primarily once a year and when specific requests are received - these may be from individuals and families or community groups. Trustee role: They would value new trustees who could bring experience to any aspects of what they do and who are keen to support the local community. The trust has firm Christian foundations and seeks to share that faith practically by supporting local people, especially the most vulnerable, in a variety of ways. Chat Revd. Clare Edwards, 01594 726318 revclareedwards@gmail.com HOPE SUPPORT SERVICES About: Hope Support Services is a charity providing support to Children and Young People experiencing a health crisis within their family or with someone who is significant to them. Based in Ross-on-Wye but cover all of Herefordshire with in person support, and provide online support nationally. Trustee role: They are looking for a talented, passionate individual to join the board as their new Finance Trustee. Chat Find our more HERE FOREST SENSORY SERVICES Forest Sensory Services is a small friendly charity, who provides support to those with sensory impairment (sight and hearing). They promote and encourage clients to remain as independent as possible with their impairments. FSS depend on volunteers to support the services they provide. Trustee role: FSS are interested in hearing from anyone interested in support their activities. Chat Support@forestsensoryservices.org FOREST OF DEAN CHILDREN’S OPPORTUNITY CENTRE The Forest of Dean Children’s Opportunity Centre was set up as a registered charity in 1982. The aim of the centre is for all children regardless of any special need or disability to play and learn alongside each other in a safe and stimulating environment. The Centre provides an informal meeting place for parents and those professionals involved in the care of the children who have diverse and complex special needs. Trustee role: The centre is looking to recruit up to two new trustees following recent retirements and a review of skills needed on the board. They are particularly looking for an individual with accounting skills to take on the role of treasurer, someone with legal expertise, ideally but not essentially in the field of charity law, and someone with broad general business experience. They would also welcome new parent trustees. Chat sue_burrows@hotmail.com or 01594 544174 CANDI Established in 1995 to improve conditions of life in Cinderford and the surrounding area, CANDI has particularly been committed to increasing the opportunities, to raising their aspirations and providing drop-ins for young people aged 11 to 17 in Cinderford and Drybrook. CANDI is now extending the scope of its work to reach out to community groups of all ages, setting up its own groups and working in partnership with other charities in the Forest of Dean. Trustee role: CANDI is seeking trustees generally but also with specialist skills in the following areas: IT, legal, publicity, HR, fundraising, premises management Chat Company Secretary - cosec@candi.email **NEW CHARITY**MINDFULVISION MindfulVision offers employment opportunities and training for Blind, Severely Sight Impaired (SSI), Visually Impaired (VI) and disabled people. Trustee role: this new charity is looking for people who can help create a more inclusive society where blind and disabled people can participate fully and equally in the workforce. Chat guy.woodland@mindfulvision.org

வன இளைஞர் சங்கம் ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீன் யூத் அசோசியேஷன் இளைஞர்கள் மற்றும் இளைஞர் கழகங்கள், குழுக்கள் அல்லது அமைப்புகளுக்கு உதவி மற்றும் ஆதரவை வழங்க உள்ளது. புதிய நண்பர்களை உருவாக்கு உங்கள் சமூகத்தில் ஈடுபடுங்கள் ஆர்வத்தைத் தொடரவும் புதிதாக ஏதாவது முயற்சிக்கவும் புதிய திறன்களைக் கற்றுக்கொள்ளுங்கள் தொண்டர் சிறந்த உலகத்தை உருவாக்குங்கள் தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு இளைஞர்கள் மற்றும் பெரியவர்கள் இருவருக்கும் தன்னார்வ வாய்ப்புகள் நிறைய உள்ளன. நீங்கள் ஒரு இளைஞராக இருந்தால், உங்கள் ஓய்வு நேரத்தில், அதிக திறன்களைப் பெற அல்லது உங்கள் DofE திட்டத்தின் ஒரு பகுதியாக தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு செய்ய விரும்புகிறீர்கள் என்றால், தயவுசெய்து எங்களை அழைக்கவும் அல்லது பார்வையிடவும் https://do-it.org/ இதேபோல், நீங்கள் திறமையும் அறிவும் கொண்ட வயது வந்தவராக இருந்தால் அல்லது டீன் வனப்பகுதியில் உள்ள இளைஞர் அமைப்புக்கு ஆதரவளிக்க விரும்பினால், உங்கள் ஆதரவைப் பாராட்டும் பல நிறுவனங்கள் இருப்பதால் தயவுசெய்து தொடர்பு கொள்ளவும். உங்கள் கிளப் / நிறுவனத்திற்கான இணைந்த உறுப்பினர் நீங்கள் ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீன் யூத் அசோசியேஷனுடன் இணைந்திருக்கும்போது, உங்களுடையது போன்ற ஒரு நிறுவனத்தை நடத்துவதற்கான அனைத்து அம்சங்களிலும் ஆலோசனை மற்றும் ஆதரவை வழங்கும் எங்கள் முழு அளவிலான சேவைகளுக்கு நீங்கள் தகுதி பெறுவீர்கள். உங்கள் தன்னார்வலர்கள் மற்றும் இளைஞர்கள் பெயரளவிலான கட்டணத்தில் பங்கேற்கக்கூடிய செயல்பாடுகளின் காலெண்டரையும் நாங்கள் இயக்குகிறோம். நன்மைகளின் முழு விவரங்களுக்கு அல்லது உங்கள் கிளப்பைப் பதிவு செய்ய, பின்வரும் இணைப்புகளைக் கிளிக் செய்யவும் கிளப்களுக்கான இளைஞர் சங்க உறுப்பினர் நன்மைகள் கிளப்களுக்கான இளைஞர் சங்க உறுப்பினர் படிவம் மேலும் தகவலுக்கு தொடர்பு விவரங்கள் எங்களுடைய திட்டங்கள் அல்லது நிகழ்வுகள் அல்லது அதில் ஈடுபடுவது பற்றி மேலும் தெரிந்து கொள்ள விரும்பினால், தயவுசெய்து எங்கள் இளைஞர் சங்க மேம்பாட்டு அதிகாரியான அலேத்தியா பம்ப்ஸ்டெடைத் தொடர்பு கொள்ளவும். 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 நிதி ஆதரவு ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீன் யூத் அசோசியேஷன் பெருமையுடன் சிண்டர்ஃபோர்ட் மற்றும் கோல்ஃபோர்ட் டவுன் கவுன்சில்களிடமிருந்து நிதி உதவியைப் பெறுகிறது. உங்கள் பாரிஷ் அல்லது டவுன் கவுன்சில் ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீன் யூத் அசோசியேஷன் பற்றி மேலும் அறிய விரும்பினால் அல்லது நீங்கள் எங்களை எப்படி ஆதரிக்கலாம் என்பதை மின்னஞ்சல் மூலம் தொடர்பு கொள்ளவும் FodYouthAssociation@fvaf.org.uk

தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீனுக்கான தன்னார்வ மையமாக, தன்னார்வலர்களைச் சேர்ப்பதற்கும் நிர்வகிப்பதற்கும் உங்களுக்கு உதவ நாங்கள் இங்கு இருக்கிறோம் எங்கள் புதிய தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு விவரங்கள் நிரப்பப்பட்ட சிறு புத்தகம் உள்ளூர் தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு வாய்ப்புகள் இப்போது இல்லை பதிவிறக்கம் செய்ய கிளிக் செய்யவும் அல்லது உங்கள் உள்ளூர் நூலகம் அல்லது சமூக மையத்தில் நகலை எடுக்கவும் தன்னார்வ மையமாக டீன் காடு தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு செய்ய ஆர்வமுள்ள எவருக்கும் நாங்கள் அடிக்கடி தொடர்பு கொள்ள வேண்டிய முதல் புள்ளியாக இருக்கிறோம். கடந்த ஆண்டு, 100,000 மணிநேர மதிப்புள்ள தன்னார்வத் தொண்டுகளுக்கு ஆதரவளிப்பதில் பெருமிதம் கொள்கிறோம்! FVAF ஆனது தன்னார்வத் தொண்டர்களை ஆதரிப்பதில் எங்களின் நெறிமுறைகளைப் பகிர்ந்து கொள்ளும் நிறுவனங்களின் பரந்த அளவிலான தன்னார்வ வாய்ப்புகளை விளம்பரப்படுத்துகிறது மற்றும் விளம்பரப்படுத்துகிறது ஏன் தன்னார்வலர்? தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு உங்களுக்கு தனித்தனியாக மட்டுமல்ல, உங்கள் சமூகத்திற்கும் நாங்கள் வாழும் உலகிற்கும் பல பெரிய நன்மைகளைக் கொண்டுள்ளது. உங்கள் CVயை மேம்படுத்தவும், புதிய நபர்களைச் சந்திக்கவும், உங்கள் திறமைகளை நன்றாகப் பயன்படுத்தவும், புதிதாக ஒன்றைக் கற்றுக்கொள்ளவும், ஆர்வத்தைத் தொடரவும், அனுபவத்தை வழங்கவும் அல்லது மாற்றத்தை ஏற்படுத்தவும் விரும்பினால், உங்களுக்கான வாய்ப்பைப் பெற நாங்கள் உத்தரவாதம் அளிக்கிறோம்! பின்வரும் வழிகளில் இந்த வாய்ப்புகளைப் பற்றி நீங்கள் அறியலாம்: வாய்ப்புகளைத் தேடுங்கள் Do-it.org 01594 822073 என்ற எண்ணில் எங்களை அழைக்கவும் மூலம் தொடர்பு கொள்ளவும் மின்னஞ்சல் FVAF திங்கள் - வெள்ளி 9:00 - 1:00 ( திசைகள் ) இல் எங்களைப் பார்க்க வாருங்கள் நீங்கள் ஒரு பெரிய குழுவின் ஒரு பகுதியாக தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு செய்ய விரும்பினால், உதாரணமாக கார்ப்பரேட் தன்னார்வத் தொண்டுகளின் ஒரு பகுதியாக, தேர்வு செய்வதற்கான பரந்த வாய்ப்புகளும் எங்களிடம் உள்ளன. 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 தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு செய்யும் அனைத்து விஷயங்களுக்கும் ஒரு நிறுத்தக் கடையாக, மதிப்புமிக்க தன்னார்வத் தொண்டர்களை ஆட்சேர்ப்பு செய்வதற்கும் தக்கவைத்துக்கொள்வதற்கும் சிறந்த வாய்ப்பை உங்களுக்கு வழங்க நாங்கள் பலதரப்பட்ட முறையைப் பயன்படுத்துகிறோம். இதில் பின்வருவன அடங்கும்: Do-it.org இல் உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை விளம்பரப்படுத்துதல் எங்களிடம் குறிப்பிடப்படும் பொது உறுப்பினர்களுக்கு அல்லது எங்கள் டிராப்-இன் செயல்பாடு மூலம் உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை விளம்பரப்படுத்துதல். எங்கள் Facebook மற்றும் Twitter பக்கங்களில் உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை விளம்பரப்படுத்துதல் தன்னார்வத்தை ஆதரிக்கும் உள்ளூர் சேவைகளுக்கு உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை ஊக்குவித்தல் எ.கா. வேலை மையம், LearnDirect மற்றும் 2GetherTrust வருடத்திற்கு 30 நிகழ்வுகளில் உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை விளம்பரப்படுத்துதல் முதலாளி ஆதரவு தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு வழங்கும் உள்ளூர் வணிகங்களுக்கு உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை அனுப்புதல் பள்ளிகள், கல்லூரிகள் மற்றும் பல்கலைக்கழகங்களுக்கு பொருத்தமான வாய்ப்புகளை ஊக்குவித்தல் 1,000 பேருக்கு மேல் உள்ள எங்களின் தன்னார்வ தரவுத்தளத்தில் உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை விநியோகித்தல் நோ யுவர் பேட்ச் உட்பட பல்வேறு நெட்வொர்க்குகளுக்கு உங்கள் வாய்ப்புகளை விளம்பரப்படுத்துதல் 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)

வன திசைகாட்டி ஃபாரஸ்ட் காம்பஸ் என்பது ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீன் முழுவதும் கிடைக்கும் பல வழக்கமான செயல்பாடுகள், ஆதரவு குழுக்கள் மற்றும் கிளப்களை பட்டியலிடும் ஒரு உடல் மற்றும் ஆன்லைன் கோப்பகம் ஆகும். குழந்தை குழுக்களில் இருந்து, மதிய உணவு கிளப்புகள், ஆண்கள் கொட்டகைகள் மற்றும் நினைவக கஃபேக்கள் மூலம் நூற்றுக்கணக்கான சமூக மற்றும் செயல்பாட்டுக் குழுக்களின் தாயகமாக காடு உள்ளது. பல இலவசம் அல்லது மிகக் குறைந்த செலவில் கலந்துகொள்ள மற்றும் தன்னார்வலர்களால் நடத்தப்படுகின்றன அல்லது இலாபக் குழுக்களுக்காக அல்ல. துரதிர்ஷ்டவசமாக, அத்தகைய குழுக்களால் பயனடையக்கூடிய பலர் தங்கள் வீட்டு வாசலில் இருக்கும் அற்புதமான வாய்ப்புகளைப் பற்றி அறிந்திருக்கவில்லை. நீங்கள் ஃபாரஸ்ட் ஆஃப் டீனில் தன்னார்வ முன்னணி செயல்பாடு, கிளப் அல்லது ஆதரவுக் குழுவை நடத்தினால், கீழே உள்ள படிவத்தைப் பூர்த்தி செய்வதன் மூலம் ஃபாரெஸ்ட் காம்பஸ் இயற்பியல் கோப்பகத்திலும் ஆன்லைன் கோப்பகத்திலும் விளம்பரம் செய்யுங்கள். Download OTHER USEFUL DIRECTORIES: YourCircle Check out a local directory to help you find your way around care and support and connect with people, places and activities in Gloucestershire

Our publications Forest Compass Edition 2 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.

The podcast kit is also available for hire to voluntary community groups. For more information on The Community Action Pod and ways to get involved contact the Host Melanie Benn on melanie@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073. Produced by Forest Voluntary Action Forum Funded by the Barnwood Trust Digital Inclusion Fund

SUMMER HAF - HOLIDAY, ACTIVITIES & FOOD WEEK 1 - 1 to 4 August MONDAY PROSTARS KIDS CLUB CAMP (4-12yrs) Dene Magna Secondary School, Picklenash Junior School, Dean Academy Secondary School PROGRESSIVE SPORTS ACTIVE CAMPS (4-13yrs) St Whites Primary School, Cinderford SWIM PASS (4-16 yrs) Freedom Leisure, Cinderford LITTLE LEARNERS CRAFTS, MESSY PLAY AND MORE Foxglove Gardens, Coleford WILDINGS HOLIDAY CLUB (5-12yrs) Noxon Farm Permaculture, Lydney REKINDLE YOUTH HOLIDAY HANG OUT (13-16yrs) Kensley Sheds, Cinderford, Coleford Recreation BOOK HERE Click to book WEDNESDAY PROSTARS KIDS CLUB CAMP (4-12yrs) Dene Magna Secondary School, Picklenash Junior School, Dean Academy Secondary School PROGRESSIVE SPORTS ACTIVE CAMPS (4-13yrs) St Whites Primary School, Cinderford SWIM PASS (4-16 yrs) Freedom Leisure, Cinderford LITTLE LEARNERS CRAFTS, MESSY PLAY AND MORE Foxglove Gardens, Coleford WILDINGS HOLIDAY CLUB (5-12yrs) Noxon Farm Permaculture, Lydney REKINDLE YOUTH HOLIDAY HANG OUT (13-16yrs) Kensley Sheds, Cinderford, Coleford Recreation BOOK HERE Click to book TUESDAY PROSTARS KIDS CLUB CAMP (4-12yrs) Dene Magna Secondary School, Picklenash Junior School, Dean Academy Secondary School PROGRESSIVE SPORTS ACTIVE CAMPS (4-13yrs) St Whites Primary School, Cinderford SWIM PASS (4-16 yrs) Freedom Leisure, Cinderford NEWENT INITIATIVE ACTIVITY SESSIONS (9-16 yrs) Chillout Zone, Newent LITTLE LEARNERS CRAFTS, MESSY PLAY AND MORE Foxglove Gardens, Coleford WILDINGS HOLIDAY CLUB (5-12yrs) Noxon Farm Permaculture, Lydney REKINDLE YOUTH HOLIDAY HANG OUT (13-16yrs) Kensley Sheds, Cinderford, Coleford Recreation BOOK HERE Click to book THURSDAY PROSTARS KIDS CLUB CAMP (4-12yrs) Dene Magna Secondary School, Picklenash Junior School, Dean Academy Secondary School PROGRESSIVE SPORTS ACTIVE CAMPS (4-13yrs) St Whites Primary School, Cinderford SWIM PASS (4-16 yrs) Freedom Leisure, Cinderford ARCHERY King George V Field, Coleford LITTLE LEARNERS CRAFTS, MESSY PLAY AND MORE Foxglove Gardens, Coleford WILDINGS HOLIDAY CLUB (5-12yrs) Noxon Farm Permaculture, Lydney REKINDLE YOUTH HOLIDAY HANG OUT (13-16yrs) Kensley Sheds, Cinderford, Coleford Recreation BOOK HERE Click to book FRIDAY PROSTARS KIDS CLUB CAMP (4-12yrs) Dene Magna Secondary School, Picklenash Junior School, Dean Academy Secondary School PROGRESSIVE SPORTS ACTIVE CAMPS (4-13yrs) St Whites Primary School, Cinderford SPORTILY ADVENTURE DAY Christian Adventure Centre, Lydney ARCHERY King George V Field, Coleford WILDINGS HOLIDAY CLUB (5-12yrs) Noxon Farm Permaculture, Lydney REKINDLE YOUTH HOLIDAY HANG OUT (13-16yrs) Kensley Sheds, Cinderford, Coleford Recreation BOOK HERE Click to book For more information visit the Gloucestershire County Council website here

Our Team. Our head office is based in Cinderford but everyday you will meet members of the FVAF team out and about supporting the community and building strong partnerships with other local organisations and groups... Chris Brown Chief Executive Officer Nick Penny Programme Manager Teresa Allewell Finance & Operations Manager Catherine Best Communications & Fundraising Manager Cathy Griffiths Development Manager Deb Cook Volunteering Manager Connor Grimshaw Facilities Manager Cherry Potter-Irwin Finance & Administration Officer Fliss Simister Youth Association Manager Lisa Robertson Youth Development Officer Katy Virgo Youth Development Officer Courtney Middleton Project Coordinator Lauren Greening Youth Development Project Manager Jodie Atkins Youth Support Worker Alex Digby Digital & Community Hubs Facilitator Melanie Benn Community Builder Teresa Rose Community Connectors' Facilitator Natasha Nelson Forest Food Network Coordinator Simon Price MY Networks Project Manager Miranda Thomason Peer Development Facilitator Pete Harper Peer Development Facilitator Meet our trustees. We have a highly skilled board of trustees who meet regularly to monitor, challenge and guide what FVAF does now, and in the future. Penny Hulbert Chair of Trustees Sid Phelps Vice Chair of Trustees Jonathan Gault Trustee - Treasurer Simon Murray Trustee Diana Martin Trustee Roger Deeks Trustee Bob Rhodes Trustee Sue Pritchard Trustee Louise Penny Trustee Vicky Head Trustee Christopher Walker Trustee Interested in becoming a FVAF Trustee? To find out more contact 01594 822 073 or contact@fvaf.org.uk

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: