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

关于 FVAF 关于 FVAF 我们的故事 我们是院长森林志愿服务委员会和志愿者中心。我们为该地区数百个志愿组织和社区组织中的许多组织提供帮助，这些组织反过来能够更好地在当地社区中开展工作并为当地社区开展工作。 自 1994 年成立以来，我们以鼓励、拥抱和加强整个院长森林的社区行动而享有盛誉。我们相信，通过以社区为主导的方法，我们使公民能够发展技能、复原力和社会资本，过上更快乐、更紧密联系的生活。 办公服务 工作人员和受托人 政策 可访问性和可持续性

Employment Skills Support Ready to take your next steps towards further education, volunteering or work? Go along to your nearest Community Hub for 121 conversations with our friendly Community Builders. They can help: Explore what matters to you Develop your CV Signposting to education, training and employment Consider volunteering opportunities Increase your confidence for online searches, applications, interviews Take up opportunities to get involved in your local community For more information please contact: community@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073

Get top tips to ‘Live for Less’ at community drop-in event! 2pm - 5pm Wednesday 22 March| Lydney Town Hall GL15 5DY Come along to our FREE drop-in event for top tips and advice to help you with the rising cost of living. From 2pm to 5pm you will get the chance to visit over 25 information stalls and speak face-to-face with experts who can offer help with food support, reducing bills, energy saving, searching for a job and benefits and money advice. PLUS we’ve got some fantastic interactive demos featuring cooking with Dean Forest Kitchen, grow your own tips from Adult Education Gloucestershire and upcycling skills with Newent Upcycling. In addition, AEG will also be giving a taste of the other sessions that they offer . Chris Brown, our CEO at said “With the cost of living constantly on the rise we are seeing first-hand the strain and impact this is having on the day-to-day lives of local people. This drop-in event will offer tips and advice and help everyone discover sustainable ways to cut their bills and save money.” ‘Living for Less’ is a free community drop-in event with a wide range of organisations signed up to attend including Forest of Dean District Council, Citizens Advice Bureau, Severn Wye Energy Agency, DWP, Homestart, Wlydwood, Two Rivers Housing and many other local community and support groups. Full list of organisations attending: Forest of Dean District Council - community, health, benefits and housing teams SevernWye Energy Agency Citizens Advice Bureau Department For Work and Pensions – Benefits and employment team Newent Upcycling Dean Forest Kitchen Friends of Forest Waterways Christians Against Poverty Wyldwood Crossroads Care Gloucestershire Carers Healthwatch Gloucestershire Adult Education Gloucestershire FRED – Forest Read Easy Deal Charlie's in the Forest Lydney Hub Gloucestershire Community Rail Two Rivers Housing Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Mothers in Mind/Homestart Lydney Exchange Gloucestershire Nightstop Great Oaks Hospice Managing Memory GOPA - Gloucestershire Older Persons' Association Dementia Action Alliance - DDA CCP – Caring for Communities and People For more information contact contact@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073.

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:

KEEPING PEOPLE SAFE Young people who are moving towards adulthood have the right to make informed choices about how they connect to their local community. This can involve risk, for guidance read: Building Connections: One minute guide to Risk Assessment

社区连接器论坛 - 了解您的补丁网络 Supporting Strong and Thriving Communities with Know Your Patch 通过了解您的补丁支持强大而繁荣的社区 社区连接器论坛 (CCF) 的“了解您的补丁”部分以创造更好的工作方式的方式连接志愿和社区部门、法定服务和当地居民。 院长森林知道你的补丁网络旨在以一种创造更好的工作方式，最终加强我们的社区的方式连接志愿和社区部门、法定服务和当地居民。这种“社区服务”对于预防或延缓健康需求的升级尤为重要。 我们在迪恩森林举办季度活动，我们邀请利益相关者参与讨论，讨论他们社区中的重要事项以及服务和志愿部门团体如何帮助支持这一点。每个“了解您的补丁”活动都是免费的，并且对任何想要参与对话的人开放。如果您想参加，请致电 01594 822073 或发送电子邮件至 help4groups@fvaf.org.uk 。 我们还定期向我们的 Know Your Patch Network 发送电子邮件和更新，了解迪恩森林中正在发生的事情。如果你想加入这个网络，请订阅 在这里 。 感谢来自 格洛斯特郡议会 , Know Your Patch 也可在格洛斯特郡的每个其他区使用。如果您想了解更多关于这些的信息，请访问 在这里 。 以下是一些强调我们想法的研究： “我们都可以在帮助个人和社区发展社会资本方面发挥作用。人们越来越认识到，尽管弱势社会群体和社区有一系列复杂且相互关联的需求，但他们在社会和社区层面也有资产这有助于改善健康，增强对健康问题的适应能力”（国王基金，2018 年） “与社会关系不佳的人相比，那些拥有适当社会关系的人的存活率要高出 50%”（Holt-Lunstad 等人，2010 年） “社交网络已被证明与常见的生活方式和临床风险（如适度吸烟、过度饮酒、肥胖和高胆固醇和血压）一样是死亡率的有力预测因素”（Pantell 等人，2013 年；Holt-Lunstad 等人，2010 年） . “社会支持对于增强复原力和促进疾病康复尤为重要”（Pevalin 和 Rose，2003 年） “缺乏社交网络和支持使得随着时间的推移自我调节行为和建立意志力和复原力变得更加困难，导致参与不健康的行为”（Cacioppo 和 Patrick 2009）。 “社区参与减少了孤立、排斥和孤独”（Farrell 和 Bryant 2009；Sevigny 等人 2010；Ryan-Collins 等人 2008） “强大的社会资本可以提高避免吸烟等生活方式风险的机会”（Folland 2008；Brown 等人，2006）

FVAF TRAINING SURVEY

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

关于 FVAF 我们的故事 我们是院长森林志愿服务委员会和志愿者中心。我们为该地区数百个志愿组织和社区组织中的许多组织提供帮助，这些组织反过来能够更好地在当地社区中开展工作并为当地社区开展工作。 自 1994 年成立以来，我们以鼓励、拥抱和加强整个院长森林的社区行动而享有盛誉。我们相信，通过以社区为主导的方法，我们使公民能够发展技能、复原力和社会资本，过上更快乐、更紧密联系的生活。 办公服务 工作人员和受托人 政策 可访问性和可持续性

“在中国建立更强大的社区 迪恩森林” 什么是 FVAF？ FVAF 代表森林自愿行动论坛。我们为当地公民、社区团体和活动提供支持，帮助他们做对他们最重要的事情。这包括以下内容： 支持和发展建议 训练 信息 网络会议 促进代表 志愿者招募 志愿者安置和支持 我们还与当地社区合作并为当地社区开展许多项目，例如院长森林青年协会、假日活动活动、森林青年音乐网络、GEM 项目、森林指南针目录、带轮子行走等等。查看我们的项目页面了解完整详情。 了解更多 Hop onboard the DigiBus! FREE 1-2-1 training Coming to a town near you…the DigiBus will be stopping at locations across the Forest during June and July with trainers on hand to help you improve your digital skills. FIND OUT MORE 新 的志愿服务目录 在院长之森做志愿者更容易？ 在 FVAF，我们制作了一本名为 Volunteering 的全新小册子 迪恩森林。这是本地提供的许多志愿服务机会中的一些免费目录。硬拷贝很快就会出现 你当地的 图书馆或社区中心或单击下面下载 数字拷贝。 义工手册下载 找到离您最近的 Drop-in Hub 现在开放 社区建设投递中心 弹出并与社区建设者面对面聊天。每个临时中心都为当地居民提供各种支持、建议和指导。例如;为当地服务提供支持和路标，连接和建立新的社区团体，支持人们更接近就业或继续教育，帮助进入数字世界并支持将您对社区的想法变为现实。 院长之森 青年协会 院长之森青年协会支持 25 岁以下的年轻人成为积极主动的公民和自己生活的领导者。我们还支持迪恩森林中的社区团体和组织，通过释放当地技能和资产（无论是人员、地点或资金）来增强他们已经在做的伟大工作。该团队在与年轻人和我们的森林社区合作方面拥有广泛的技能和经验，因此我们可以适应大多数与青年相关的项目或询问并做出反应。因此，青年协会参与了各种各样的项目，并为支持和服务提供路标。 了解更多 志愿者支持 如果您想在院长森林中做志愿者，我们为您提供了一系列当前的机会。 如果您是一个需要志愿者支持的社区团体，我们可以为您宣传您的志愿职位空缺。 如果您在与志愿者合作方面需要帮助和建议，请联系 Search Volunteer Opportunites 在 Facebook 上关注我们 我们会定期在 Facebook 上发布最新消息和活动。有关最新信息，请关注我们的 Facebook 页面 去脸书 我们的同伴

FVAF COMMUNITY CELEBRATION & AGM 2024 BOOK HERE Frequently visited pages: COMMUNITY HUBS VOLUNTEER ADVICE FOREST YOUTH ASSOCIATION 什么是 FVAF？ FVAF 代表森林自愿行动论坛。我们为当地公民、社区团体和活动提供支持，帮助他们做对他们最重要的事情。这包括以下内容： 支持和发展建议 训练 信息 网络会议 促进代表 志愿者招募 志愿者安置和支持 我们还与当地社区合作并为当地社区开展许多项目，例如院长森林青年协会、假日活动活动、森林青年音乐网络、GEM 项目、森林指南针目录、带轮子行走等等。查看我们的项目页面了解完整详情。 “在中国建立更强大的社区 迪恩森林” 了解更多 JOIN OUR MAILING LIST Get the latest community news and check out exciting volunteering opportunity in or around the Forest of Dean... 去脸书 Useful publications: FREE directory of the many volunteering opportunities available locally... DOWNLOAD 我们的同伴 We work with so many amazing and supportive partners. Find out more here... How to contact us Forest Voluntary Action Forum Ow Bist Forest Community Space Dockham Road Cinderford , Glos. GL14 2AN Email us: contact@fvaf.org.uk Tel: 01594 822073 Copyright © 2021 Forest Voluntary Action Forum. All Rights Reserved. Forest Voluntary Action Forum is a charity (1141126) and company limited by guarantee (07557852) registered in England and Wales. The registered address is The Belle Vue Centre, Cinderford, Glos, GL14 2AB. Forest Voluntary Action Forum proudly receives financial support from the Forest of Dean District Council .