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

Topluluk Bağlayıcıları Forumu - Yama Ağınızı Tanıyın Supporting Strong and Thriving Communities with Know Your Patch Patch Your Patch ile Güçlü ve Gelişen Toplulukları Destekleme Topluluk Bağlayıcıları Forumu'nun (CCF) Yamanızı Bilin kısmı, Gönüllü ve Toplum Sektörü, Yasal Hizmetler ve yerel sakinleri daha iyi çalışma yolları yaratacak şekilde birbirine bağlar. Dean Ormanı Yamanızı Tanıyın Ağı, Gönüllü ve Toplum Sektörü, Yasal Hizmetler ve yerel sakinleri daha iyi çalışma yöntemleri yaratacak ve nihayetinde topluluklarımızı güçlendirecek şekilde birbirine bağlamak için tasarlanmıştır. Bu 'topluluk teklifi', sağlık ihtiyaçlarının artmasını önlemede veya geciktirmede özellikle hayati önem taşımaktadır. Dean Ormanı boyunca, paydaşları toplumlarında neyin önemli olduğu ve hizmetlerin ve gönüllü sektör gruplarının bunu nasıl destekleyebileceği konusundaki tartışmaya katılmaya davet ettiğimiz üç ayda bir düzenlenen etkinliklere ev sahipliği yapıyoruz. Her Patch Your Patch etkinliği ÜCRETSİZDİR ve sohbetin bir parçası olmak isteyen herkese açıktır. Katılmak isterseniz lütfen 01594 822073 numaralı telefonu arayın veya help4groups@fvaf.org.uk adresine e-posta gönderin. Ayrıca, Dean Ormanı'nda neler olup bittiğiyle ilgili olarak Patch Your Patch Network'e düzenli e-postalar ve güncellemeler gönderiyoruz. Bu ağa katılmak istiyorsanız, lütfen abone olun burada . tarafından sağlanan finansman sayesinde Gloucestershire İlçe Meclisi , Yamanızı Tanıyın Gloucestershire'daki diğer tüm Bölgelerde de mevcuttur. Bunlar hakkında daha fazla bilgi edinmek isterseniz, lütfen ziyaret edin burada . İşte düşüncemizin altını çizen araştırmalardan bazıları: "Bireylerin ve toplulukların sosyal sermaye geliştirmelerine yardım etmede hepimizin oynayacağı bir rol var. Dezavantajlı sosyal grupların ve toplulukların bir dizi karmaşık ve birbiriyle ilişkili ihtiyaçları olmasına rağmen, sosyal ve topluluk düzeyinde de varlıkları olduğu giderek daha fazla kabul görüyor. sağlığı iyileştirmeye ve sağlık sorunlarına karşı direnci güçlendirmeye yardımcı olabilecek" (The Kings Fund, 2018) "Yeterli sosyal ilişkilere sahip olanlar, zayıf sosyal ilişkilere sahip bireylere kıyasla yüzde 50 daha fazla hayatta kalma oranına sahipti" (Holt-Lunstad ve diğerleri 2010) "Sosyal ağların, yaygın yaşam tarzı ve ılımlı sigara içme, aşırı alkol tüketimi, obezite ve yüksek kolesterol ve kan basıncı gibi klinik riskler kadar güçlü ölüm belirleyicileri olduğu gösterilmiştir" (Pantell ve diğerleri 2013; Holt-Lunstad ve diğerleri, 2010) . "Sosyal destek, dayanıklılığı arttırmada ve hastalıktan iyileşmeyi desteklemede özellikle önemlidir" (Pevalin ve Rose, 2003) "Sosyal ağların ve desteğin eksikliği, davranışları kendi kendine düzenlemeyi ve zamanla irade ve dayanıklılık oluşturmayı zorlaştırarak sağlıksız davranışlarda bulunmaya yol açar" (Cacioppo ve Patrick 2009). "Topluluk Katılımı izolasyonu, dışlanmayı ve yalnızlığı azaltır" (Farrell ve Bryant 2009; Sevigny ve diğerleri 2010; Ryan-Collins ve diğerleri 2008) "Güçlü sosyal sermaye, sigara içmek gibi yaşam tarzı risklerinden kaçınma şansını artırır" (Folland 2008; Brown ve diğerleri, 2006) Autumn Programme 2025 September 2nd (Short) Thriving Communities The TC grant was launched in August. Come along and find out more about it and hear about the work that has been funded through the scheme. 16th (Short) Digital Inclusion Strategy – Stakeholder Engagement with GCC This session will be led by those involved in the Digital Inclusion Project in Gloucestershire. 30th (Short) Health in the Forest A focus on health-related matters and support that is available in our locality. October 14th (In-person) Spotlight on Cinderford This meeting will take the form of a walk around the town visiting some of the projects that are being led by FKYP members and partners. We will meet at Ow Bist Forest Community Space and follow a route round Cinderford. 28th (Short) FODCAP Update Come along and hear about developments and updates on project in the Forest. November 11th (Short) Community Support Showcasing the work of several community groups who work for the benefit of the Forest Community. 25th (Long) Health in the Forest Another session where we will focus on health-related matters and support that is available in our locality. Please note The meeting on October 14th will be in-person and an opportunity for all those attending to network. All other meetings are online on MS Teams. The invitation will be sent out at the beginning of the season and then the link will be added to the regular reminder email – together with meeting notes from the previous session and the Agenda for the meeting If you would like to deliver a presentation at a forthcoming meeting or there is a topic that you would like to be addressed, please contact Teresa Rose, FKYP Facilitator at fodkyp@fvaf.org.uk to discuss this further. We look forward to seeing you in the forthcoming weeks.

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

Share Your Vision for the Forest of Dean – New Online Ways to Join the Conversation Have your say on the Forest's future – including potential UNESCO Biosphere designation. Residents across the Forest of Dean can now take part in shaping the area's future, from the comfort of their own home, with new online platforms that have just launched as part of a major community engagement project. Forest of Dean District Council has commissioned Wylderne to explore what the future could look like for this distinctive working Forest – including the possibility of UNESCO Biosphere designation – and everyone is invited to have their say. We've been supporting Wylderne with reaching the community and we're excited to launch 2 new digital opportunities to make it easier for everyone to contribute. Open to the whole community, residents can join facilitated video discussions in AI-Moderated Video Chat Rooms. A text-Based conversation platform is also being used to allow people to share thoughts and ideas through online discussion forums AI-Moderated Video Chat Room - sign up HERE Text Based conversation - take part HERE What's it all about? Our unique landscape has created a remarkable history and culture. But what will be the next chapter for this working Forest? What could a future look like that's rooted in our beautiful landscape and the stories that have forged our local identity? As part of these conversations, we'll also explore whether becoming a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve could help bring out the potential we know is here. A Biosphere is a place where communities learn how to protect biodiversity AND develop sustainably – finding local solutions to global challenges. But this is a genuine conversation about possibilities, not a done deal. We want to hear from YOU We're using an innovative approach that starts by asking what you value and treasure about the Forest. What stories make you proud? What are our strengths? What would you like to see in our future? Visit https://www.fdean.gov.uk/forest-of-dean-s-unesco-biosphere-bid or https://www.wylderne.com/ for more information. What is a UNESCO Biosphere? There are 759 Biosphere Reserves in 136 countries, with 7 already in the UK (including North Devon, Isle of Wight, and Dyfi in Wales). They're places for innovation – where communities work out how human beings and nature can live side by side so both can thrive. Cllr Chris McFarling, who represents Sedbury and St Briavels on Forest of Dean District Council, said: "A business as usual approach has seen continued declines in species, increased development, and increased pollution of our rivers. Becoming a Biosphere will tell the international community that there is something special and unique about the natural environment and the culture of the people of the Dean." Get involved Your insights will help shape a report that will be completed in early March 2026, feeding into the potential Biosphere application and helping guide our Forest's future direction. For more information: Visit: www.wylderne.com Contact: Paul Pivcevic, 07968 472317 or Catherine Best, communications@fvaf.org.uk

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

Orman Gençlik Derneği Orman Dekanı Gençlik Derneği, gençlere ve gençlik kulüplerine, gruplarına veya kuruluşlarına yardım ve destek sunmak için burada. Yeni arkadaşlar edin Topluluğunuza Katılın bir ilgi peşinde koşmak Yeni bir şey dene Yeni beceriler öğren Gönüllü Daha iyi bir dünya yaratın gönüllülük Hem gençler hem de yetişkinler için birçok gönüllülük fırsatı var. Boş zamanlarında, daha fazla beceri kazanmak veya DofE programınızın bir parçası olarak gönüllü olarak çalışmak isteyen genç bir kişiyseniz, lütfen bizi arayın veya ziyaret edin. https://do-it.org/ Benzer şekilde, beceri ve bilgisi olan bir yetişkinseniz veya Dean Ormanı'ndaki bir gençlik kuruluşunu desteklemek istiyorsanız, desteğinizi takdir edecek birçok kuruluş olduğundan lütfen iletişime geçin. Kulübünüz / Organizasyonunuz için Bağlı Üyelik Forest of Dean Youth Association'a üye olduğunuzda, sizinki gibi bir organizasyonun her alanında tavsiye ve destek sunan tüm hizmetlerimizden yararlanma hakkına sahip olacaksınız. Ayrıca gönüllülerinizin ve gençlerin cüzi bir ücret karşılığında katılabileceği bir etkinlik takvimi de yürütüyoruz. Avantajların tüm detayları için veya kulübünüzü kaydettirmek için aşağıdaki linklere tıklayın Kulüpler için Gençlik Derneği Üyelik Avantajları Kulüpler için Gençlik Derneği Üyelik Formu Daha Fazla Bilgi İçin İletişim Bilgileri Projelerimiz veya etkinliklerimiz hakkında veya nasıl katılacağınız hakkında daha fazla bilgi edinmek isterseniz, lütfen şu adresten Gençlik Derneği Geliştirme Sorumlumuz Alethea Bumpstead ile iletişime geçin. 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 Finansal destek Forest of Dean Youth Association, Cinderford ve Coleford Belediye Meclislerinden gururla mali destek almaktadır. Mahalleniz veya Belediye Meclisiniz Orman Dekanı Gençlik Derneği hakkında veya bize nasıl destek olabileceğiniz hakkında daha fazla bilgi edinmek isterse, lütfen e-posta ile iletişime geçin. FodYouthAssociation@fvaf.org.uk

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

Orman Pusulası Forest Compass, Forest of Dean'de bulunan düzenli aktivitelerin, destek gruplarının ve kulüplerin birçoğunu listeleyen fiziksel ve çevrimiçi bir rehberdir. Orman, bebek gruplarından öğle yemeği kulüplerine, erkek barakalarından hatıra kafelerine kadar her türden yüzlerce sosyal ve aktivite grubuna ev sahipliği yapıyor. Birçoğu, gönüllüler tarafından veya kâr grupları için değil, katılmak ve çalıştırmak için ücretsiz veya çok düşük maliyetlidir. Ne yazık ki, bu tür gruplardan yararlanabilecek birçok insan, kapılarının önündeki inanılmaz fırsatlardan habersizdir. Forest of Dean'de bir gönüllü liderlik etkinliği, kulüp veya destek grubu yürütürseniz, hem Forest Compass fiziksel dizininde hem de buradaki çevrimiçi dizinde reklam verin, aşağıdaki formu doldurarak ÜCRETSİZ olarak. 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

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 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