Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters(Worcester Branch)

Association Newsletters. 2.

If you are not in receipt of the WFRA ENewsletter and have internet connection,please contact

RHQ Mercian Nottingham (newsletter@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk ) and we will send you the ENews update.

THE WORCESTERSHIRE AND SHERWOOD FORESTERS REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION

Patron: HRH The Princess Royal
President: Brig P Dennis

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24 November 2023 WFRA NEWSLETTER Volume 14 Issue 53

001 VETERANS UK REBRAND

Welfare services for UK Armed Forces veterans are set to get a 'fresh start' after the Government accepted the findings of an independent review. The majority of recommendations from the Independent Review of UK Government Welfare Services for Veterans were accepted, according to the Government. As a result, the Veterans UK brand will be retired, with services and responsibilities clarified across the government.
This is to ensure more clarified and clear communications for the services the Ministry of Defence (MOD) provides military personnel and veterans, although the MOD is yet to announce a replacement. Additionally, the Veterans’ Gateway is set to be improved so every veteran of the British military knows where to turn to access help. The Office for Veterans' Affairs has been given a central role in coordinating the support for veterans, with the word 'Veterans' being removed from the MOD Ministerial title 'Minister for Defence People Veterans and Service Families'. Johnny Mercer, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, said the review was commissioned so "veterans know where to turn when accessing some of the services on offer". "These changes will help veterans services become more effective, efficient and clear - ultimately benefiting veterans across the UK," he said. Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Mercer said the move puts the Government "yet another step closer… to make the UK the best country in the world to be a veteran". As well as paying tribute to the review team, the minister added that the UK has an "unwavering duty to those who put their life on the line for our freedom". "This Government is committed and determined to discharge that duty with the honour and respect our courageous ex-service personnel deserve," he said. Additionally, the Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committees (VAPC) will be modernised, with work underway to work out how VAPC can better serve the Armed Forces. The review looked at all aspects of the UK Government's welfare provisions for veterans, including those given by the MOD. This included services such as the Veterans Welfare Service, the Defence Transition Service, which helps personnel move into civilian life and the Northern Ireland Veterans Support Office, amongst others. Andrew Murrison, Minister for Defence People and Families, said the review "builds on the hard work already being undertaken by a lot of people who genuinely care" about the Armed Forces community. The Office for Veterans' Affairs has also launched a consultation to better understand veterans, the effectiveness of current policies and how to shape future policy.

002 MORE FUNDING FOR VETERANS MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced £10 million of funding to support veterans' mental health services in his Autumn Statement. Jeremy Hunt also announced the Government will extend National Insurance relief for employers of eligible veterans for another year. This announcement followed Mr Hunt telling the House of Commons, that a "disciplined approach to public spending" will continue to allow the Government to meet its NATO commitment to spend at least 2% of GDP on defence and thus also allowing them to support veterans further.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said: "We also support a group of people to whom we owe our freedom, our brave veterans. "I will extend national insurance relief for employers of eligible veterans for a further year and provide £10 million to support the Veterans' Places, Pathways and People programme." Veterans minister Johnny Mercer was thanked during Mr Hunt's speech, for continuing to champion the veterans. "And I thank our excellent veterans minister for championing their cause," Mr Hunt said, which received a unanimous hear, hear of support from the house.
Mr Mercer expressed his delight at the autumn statement announcements of funding into veterans services, but reiterated that there still was "more to do". The veterans minister on X, formerly known as Twitter said: "The Autumn Statement was today..one of the two major financial moments of the year. "Proud to be in a Government that continues to invest record levels of funding into Veterans services. "More to do, but we're transforming what it means to be a veteran in the UK today". The Veterans' Places, Pathways and People programme, funded through the Veterans' Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, will look to provide grants for the sustainable provision of places of safety and pathways of support across the UK.
Ten grants of up to £800,000 will be awarded through this programme to portfolios of projects, which will work regionally to develop better, more joined-up lasting support for local veterans with mental health needs.

003 APPEAL FOR FAMILIES OF THE FALLEN

A British Army veteran and artist who has painted portraits of each and every member of the British Armed Forces who died in Afghanistan has urged families of the war dead to get in touch. In 2021, Kevin Wills, who served with the Royal Logistic Corps, began the portraits of all 457 who died serving in Afghanistan and has now finished the paintings, but he is trying to find the last family members to send the paintings to.
There is a crowdfunding page that was set up by another veteran to pay for all the portraits. "Most of them have all gone out, so I think I've got about 140 yet to be framed up and to get sent to the respected families but it's all due to funding. As soon as the funds come in, I'm able to pay for the frames and the delivery costs. I think there's just under 100 portraits that are unclaimed yet, or the family haven't got back to me with an address," he said. "I can send the portrait on as soon as I can get that framed up and everything. You can see everything on my website as well, which another veteran kindly set up for me." The website, www.thefallenofafghanistan.co.uk, shows the portraits that are yet to be claimed. Mr Wills also said the feedback he has received from doing the paintings has been "really good", as well as being "emotional for the families" and himself. "It's indescribable, the emotions," he said. "When I've been speaking to the families, they're obviously overjoyed that people are still thinking about them at the end of the day" "That was my main objective of the project, to help everyone remember all of our fallen friends and soldiers.".

004 WORCESTERSHIRE ARMED FORCES COVENANT ROUNDUP

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust is offering a simple scan to men 65 and over and they would like to offer this service to our veteran community. Please see the poster attached for more details. They have a mobile unit and hope to come along to Stepway’s Banter and Brews in the near future so do contact Stepway if you are interested – alternatively, you can go to them direct or via your GP.
An employers’ guide to hiring veterans A useful and easy to read publication full of stats, case studies and practical guidance for employers. It showcases best practice and provides employers with the tools, information and guidance they need to make the most of what our veterans have to offer. An employers’ guide to hiring veterans (publishing.service.gov.uk) New fund to improve access to support for female veterans Women veterans who have suffered sexual trauma in the military will soon have access to improved clinical support within the UK healthcare and charity sector. This funding will support the rollout of dedicated training and guidance for frontline staff to support women veteran survivors of sexual trauma across healthcare services, military and civilian charities. New fund to improve access to support for female veterans - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Latest grants from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust Veterans’ Career Development Fund – closing date 8 Jan 2024: The Trust will award grants on behalf of the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, to projects that will enable Veterans and their families to enter stable long-term employment, by delivering qualifications and training. Armed Forces Families Fund: Early Years programme 2023-24 – closing date 12 Jan 2024. Supporting Partners Programme: provides funding to projects that will improve support for Service partners and spouses regarding the skills and experiences they bring to the workplace. Please do let us know if any local or regional organisations are considering applying or you need support with your application. Supporting Our Veterans: A Consultation – closing date 4th Jan 2024 The Government is calling on UK veterans and organisations to share their views and experiences in a consultation to help shape the future of veteran policies.

Take the survey at Supporting Our Veterans: A Consultation - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Veteran Friendly Framework Accreditation for the Care Sector

Designed for use in residential settings for older people, the Veteran Friendly Framework helps care providers to offer appropriate support for the thousands of veterans living in care homes across England. The Framework supports care providers in identifying veterans and their wellbeing needs, addressing social isolation and providing signposting to statutory and charitable services. Read more at Veteran Friendly Framework - Royal Star & Garter (starandgarter.org)

005 ANZIO VETERANS

Are you a Sherwood Forester Veteran who fought at Anzio, or do you know of a man who did? If so, please contact the Assistant Regimental Secretary, along with you contact details, as plans are underway for the 80th anniversary commemorations. cindy.clark247@mod.gov.uk

006 VACANCY NOTICE - CADET EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) – EAST MIDLANDS RESERVE FORCES AND CADET ASSOCIATION (EM RFCA)

Applications are invited for the post of Cadet Executive Officer (CEO) with EM RFCA to work within Derbyshire Army Cadet Force. This post is based at the Army Reserve Centre, Sinfin, Derby and the successful candidate will be expected to reside within daily travelling distance.
The successful candidate will be employed by EM RFCA as a member of the Professional Support Staff (PSS) with the status of a Crown Servant (Pay Band C2). The principle role of the post is to act as professional adviser to the County Cadet Commandant on all logistic and administrative aspects of the ACF.
This position attracts a current salary of £41,173 All Hours Worked (AHW) per annum. Benefits include a Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme (with the option for Additional Voluntary Contributions
As the Cadet Executive Officer you will be employed on an All Hours Worked (AHW) contract, which provides a comprehensive method of remuneration as a permanent stable addition to basic pay. It recognises the requirement for additional hours to be worked in the evenings and at weekends on a routine basis.
Applicants will have comprehensive experience and knowledge of or from the Youth Sector and will have demonstrable leadership skills in leading teams that deliver youth centric outcomes. Previous service within the Armed Forces is advantageous but not critical.
Applicants must be fully conversant with safeguarding and must be prepared to undertake the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead for the County.
The appointment is for a probationary period of six months in the first instance, after which it may be confirmed on a permanent basis. The holiday entitlement is 25 days annual leave on entry (previous HM Armed Forces service and previous service in the Public Sector may attract additional entitlement) plus public holidays.
The successful candidate will also need to be security cleared prior to appointment; this will also include an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check.
A detailed Job Description is available from the Association’s website:
http://eastmidlandsrfca.co.uk/about/vacancies/
Applications, complete with a CV and covering letter are to be submitted to Miss Chantelle Hibbert, Head of Support Services at: em-offman@rfca.mod.uk
Interviews will be held early December 2023 with appointment as soon as possible there after.

007 THE LAST BANTAM

Michael Hughes play about Patrick Michael Wolfe, a fictional Dubliner who joins the 15th Bantam Battalion, Sherwood Foresters was held at the Edinburgh Fringe, in the summer. While the Foresters aren't mentioned in the 30 second trailer (they feature in the play proper) the eagle-eyed might spot the brass Notts & Derby badge on each shoulder.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQptBEZ9uJo

009 MINISTRY OF TARTAN

The Ministry of Tartan sells many items from scarves and wraps to ties, bow ties and kilts. With donations from sales being made to military charities. Further information can be found at: www.theministryoftartan.co.uk

010 JOB VACANCY

A vacancy has arisen for someone with experience in hospitality & management skills to act as Steward for a private member’s Club lunchtimes and occasional events.
Location Nottingham City Centre.
For more information please contact Contact Sue Bell 07742 138 125.

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17 November 2023 WFRA NEWSLETTER Volume 14 Issue 52

001 ANZIO VETERANS

002 VACANCY NOTICE - CADET EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) – EAST MIDLANDS RESERVE FORCES AND CADET ASSOCIATION (EM RFCA)

Applications are invited for the post of Cadet Executive Officer (CEO) with EM RFCA to work within Derbyshire Army Cadet Force. This post is based at the Army Reserve Centre, Sinfin, Derby and the successful candidate will be expected to reside within daily travelling distance.
The successful candidate will be employed by EM RFCA as a member of the Professional Support Staff (PSS) with the status of a Crown Servant (Pay Band C2). The principle role of the post is to act as professional adviser to the County Cadet Commandant on all logistic and administrative aspects of the ACF.
This position attracts a current salary of £41,173 All Hours Worked (AHW) per annum. Benefits include a Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme (with the option for Additional Voluntary Contributions
As the Cadet Executive Officer you will be employed on an All Hours Worked (AHW) contract, which provides a comprehensive method of remuneration as a permanent stable addition to basic pay. It recognises the requirement for additional hours to be worked in the evenings and at weekends on a routine basis.
Applicants will have comprehensive experience and knowledge of or from the Youth Sector and will have demonstrable leadership skills in leading teams that deliver youth centric outcomes. Previous service within the Armed Forces is advantageous but not critical.
Applicants must be fully conversant with safeguarding and must be prepared to undertake the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead for the County.
The appointment is for a probationary period of six months in the first instance, after which it may be confirmed on a permanent basis. The holiday entitlement is 25 days annual leave on entry (previous HM Armed Forces service and previous service in the Public Sector may attract additional entitlement) plus public holidays.
The successful candidate will also need to be security cleared prior to appointment; this will also include an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check.
A detailed Job Description is available from the Association’s website:
http://eastmidlandsrfca.co.uk/about/vacancies/
Applications, complete with a CV and covering letter are to be submitted to Miss Chantelle Hibbert, Head of Support Services at: em-offman@rfca.mod.uk
Interviews will be held early December 2023 with appointment as soon as possible there after.

003 THE LAST BANTAM Michael Hughes play about Patrick Michael Wolfe, a fictional Dubliner who joins the 15th Bantam Battalion, Sherwood Foresters was held at the Edinburgh Fringe, in the summer. While the Foresters aren't mentioned in the 30 second trailer (they feature in the play proper) the eagle-eyed might spot the brass Notts & Derby badge on each shoulder.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQptBEZ9uJo

004 REMEMBRANCE DAY - LONDON
Members of WFRA marched at the Remembrance Day Parade in London. Thank you to Neil Howard for organising the marching tickets.

005 ACT OF REMEMBRANCE - ASTWOOD CEMETERY
Act of Remembrance Sunday 19th November 2023

Commonwealth War Graves Astwood cemetery

10.30 - 10.45 Meet up on Cemetery car park 11.00 Laying of Crosses and short speech by 11.10 Form up to march to Cenotaph. 11.20 Exhortation is recited at Cenotaph 11.22 - 2-minute silence 11.23 The Kohima and laying of wreaths

Following on from the ceremony members may wish to lay crosses on further graves around the cemetery Parade Marshall John Walters Coordinator Rob McCarthy

006 E COY MEMORIAL NIGHT
Members of E Company will be holding a Memorial Night at 1930hrs on Saturday 25 November at Langold British Legion, Doncaster Road, Langold S81 9QH.
Dress Casual.
All are welcome to attend.

007 REMEMBRANCE SERVICE
The Remembrance Service at Crich was lead by Rev Wendy Murphy. The ladies choir from Crich Carr School sang for us and Crich infant school were presented with a model of the Memorial Tower.

008 POPPY TRAIN & ACT OF REMEMBARNCE At the station Mayor of Worcester Louis Stephen and Consort, Worcester City Veterans Champion Pat Agar, Alan Fish, Barry Kemp, Rob McCarthy, Neil Cale, Val Easterlow, Alan Wakefield & Alan Bray. Members of Worcester Branch gathered at County Hall of the Act of Remembrance Service.

009 MINISTRY OF TARTAN The Ministry of Tartan sells many items from scarves and wraps to ties, bow ties and kilts. With donations from sales being made to military charities. Further information can be found at: www.theministryoftartan.co.uk

011 JOB VACANCY

012 WORCESTER REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE Worcester Branch WFRA Parade Marshall, John Walters commanded the ceremony. The placing of wreaths was led by The Right Worshipful Mayor of Worcester Councillor Louis Stephen. Val Easterlow placed a wreath at the War Memorial on Behalf of Worcester Branch.
Congregation was led in prayer by Residentiary Canon and Precentor The Reverend Canon John Paul Hoskins. In attendance was Interim Dean Reverend Dr Stephen Edwards. After the ceremony Worcester Branch of The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association presented gifts of a carrying sling and standard pole to Tom Wisniewski, President of Worcester Polish Association.

Thanks go to Alan Bray for taking the photos

013 FRIENDS OF THE MERCIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM - WORCESTER
Talk

Saturday 18th November 2023

13.30 for 14.00 start at Lyppard Hub/Community Centre, Ankerage Green, Worcester, WR4 0DZ Friends £3 Non-Friends £5 Light refreshments included. ‘A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Retirement’ by Bill Nelson . A humorous take on a retired Army officer’s transition to life in the civilian security sector- following his encounters with insurgents in Iraq; kidnapping, corruption and murder attempts in Azerbaijan; planning insurrections in the Middle East; fleeing the KGB in Turkmenistan; meeting Vladimir Putin in Abu Dhabi; and many more as he bounces from country to country and crisis to crisis.

A former Lt Col in British Military Intelligence with broad domestic and international operational intelligence and security experience, Bill Nelson has worked in the private sector for 25 years. He speaks fluent Russian and proficient French and German. Parking is free both outside the venue and in the access road and there is a bus service that stops almost next door. Talks are open to everyone.

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10 November 2023 WFRA NEWSLETTER Volume 14 Issue 51

OBITUARY Kathleen (Kath) Brown wife of 23946592 WO2 (Topper) Brown

13 Jan 1948 to 26 Aug 2023 Kath passed away peacefully after a sudden illness on the 26 Aug 23 at the Manor Hospital, Walsall.

Kath married Topper on the 31 Dec 1966 and soon joined Topper and the Bn in Gibraltar in Jan 1967. She soon settled in to married life as wife and then mother to x3 children; Mark (Bomber Brown) currently (WO1 RSM DCBRNC), Dawn and Sally. She loyally followed Topper whereever he was posted, which included; Gibraltar, Bulford, Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield, Nottingham, NI Ballykelly, West Germany Berlin and Hemer. Kath made many friends in the WFR family, and really enjoyed Army life especially Mess functions., Where she often left not before the Champagne Breakfast and washed down with a Gin and Orange. As Topper progressed through the ranks to CSM she too took responsibility and took under her experienced wing some of the new wives. Providing support and friendship especially when the Bn was deployed away on operations. Her bespoke cleaning standards which she honed getting ready for many march outs never left her, and often told people about her experiences of being both mom and Dad when Topper was away. Kath is remembered for her infectious humour, kindness and love for her family. Her funeral has taken place.

001 Act of Remembrance

Sunday 19th November 2023 Commonwealth War Graves Astwood cemetery

10.30 - 10.45 Meet up on Cemetery car park

11.00 Laying of Crosses and short speech by

11.10 Form up to march to Cenotaph.

11.20 Exhortation is recited at Cenotaph

11.22 - 2-minute silence

11.23 The Kohima and laying of wreaths

Following on from the ceremony members may wish to lay crosses on further graves around the cemetery

Parade Marshall John Walters

Coordinator Rob McCarthy

002 REMEMBRANCE SERVICE - CRICH

Chesterfield Branch are hosting a Remembrance Day Service at Crich Memorial Tower on Saturday 11 November at 10.45hrs.
Please follow the instructions for car parking and allow sufficient time to walk up the hill.

003 WORCESTER REMEMBRANCE PARADE

The parade will march to the Cathedral for the annual Service of Remembrance at 10am. The service will start at 10am and finish at 10.40am, when attendees will then make their way to the wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial outside the Cathedral. At 11am, there will be a two minute silence and wreaths will be laid.

All are warmly welcome to attend this special Service.
All detachments and organisations wishing to march to the Cathedral in a formed body are to debus and form up at the Cornmarket car park by 9.00am. The parade will move off at 9.15am.

004 MINISTRY OF TARTAN

006 APPEAL FOR INFORMATION

Nicholas Lambert has written a book about his Great Grandfather who served in WW1, The book is due to be launched in the New Year.
Nicholas is trying to make contact with relatives of the officers and soldiers of 1/8th and 2/8th Worcestershire Regiment so that they can gather together at the launch the book to remember these gallant men.
Please send any information to newsletter@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk

007 JOB VACANCY

008 WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ACT OF REMEMBRANCE
On behalf of Councillor Kyle Daisley, Chairman of Worcestershire County Council we would be delighted to invite the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association to our Service at County Hall on Friday 10 November, for an Act of Remembrance. The Service will start shortly before 11am in front of staff and councillors. The Chairman and our Chaplain will conduct the Service which will include a two minute silence for reflection.
Light refreshments will follow to which you are warmly invited. We would be delighted if you or any of your members would like to attend, along with your Regimental Standard.
If you are attending this event please see the notes below. We normally undertake this annual Service in front of our Roll of Honour Memorial plaque which is located outside the council chambers. Due to ongoing building works at County Hall, this will be an outside event with limited access to the building so please do read the following instructions carefully. The event will be held at Worcestershire County Council campus, Spetchley Road, Worcester, WR5 2NP. After you enter the barriers please follow signs to the visitor car park. Please could I ask all veterans to muster by the visitor car park by 10.25am. Kate La Barre and Cllr Richard Morris will be there to greet you. The service will take place by the lakeside at the rear of the building, which is about a 5 minute walk from the visitor car park. Signage will be put out but Richard and myself will be there to guide. The route is pathed with one or two level steps along the way. If anyone needs wheelchair access please do let me know as soon as possible as an alternative route can be organised. Please do come wrapped up for any weather conditions – and do bring an umbrella if rain is forecasted! I know the weather will not faze you! Once you are at the lakeside you will be directed to seating by staff. There will be space for Standard bearers and the bugler to line up. Please see the attached order of service. This follows the standard Act of Remembrance that you will all be familiar with. The Chairman would like to invite you all for light refreshments afterwards and staff will be on hand to escort you into the building. Also attending the event will be the choir from South Bromsgrove High School who will be singing prior to the service together with children from Perryfields PRU who will be observing the service as part of their current Remembrance project. Staff, councillors and other civic guests will be in attendance.

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03 November 2023 WFRA NEWSLETTER Volume 14 Issue 50
001 GHELUVELT SERVICE - 29 OCTOBER 2023
Our main guests at the service were the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire Mrs Beatrice Grant, High Sheriff of Worcestershire Louise Hewett, Chairman of County Council Mr Kyle Daisley, Right Worshipful the Mayor of Worcester Louis Stephen. The Mercian Regiment was represented by Captain Luke Boxall of the 4th Battalion who read out the thirty four names on the Roll of Honour. After the National Anthem was sung by all The Mayor of Worcester delivered a very good speech.

The Ceremony was well attended, the attendance is starting to creep up towards to its pre covid levels. The weather was kind to us and that is always a bonus.

Most of the VIP`s attended Barbourne Ex Services Club and stayed for the buffet afterwards to meet members of Worcester Branch.

Thanks to Alan Bray for the Photos and Nathan Gunnell for operating the sound system.

002 WORCESTERSHIRE POPPY LAUNCH

Members of Worcester Branch gathered at the Guildhall on Saturday 28th October for this years RBL Poppy Launch.
003 POPPY TRAIN
On Friday 10 November at 07:10hrs Alan 'Kipper' and Nigel will be at Shrubhill Station on a platform 2 to hand a wreath on behalf of the branch that will be laid on our behalf at the War memorial at Paddington Station on Platform 1.
We will be going for a cooked breakfast (venue to be decided) afterwards instead of going back to Malvern as we are at County Hall at 10:30hrs.
If you would like to attend please contact Nigel Fish, he will need your name and car registration for for the people that are organising this event.

004 FOREST FORCES EVENTS
Using peer support hubs and awareness raising training, this programme aims to support the promotion of positive mental health. Tricky Hubs are a relaxed, informal space, where you can talk to others who may be experiencing difficulties with their mental health and to be able to share your experiences. The Hubs provide the opportunity to open up in a confidential and supportive environment to share and discuss your own thoughts and feelings.

TRICKY HUBS: CONNECTING PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE

The Tricky Hubs are open to individuals from all backgrounds and will run on a weekly basis. These sessions provide a comfortable environment where participants can openly discuss their mental health. Whether you prefer the convenience of online sessions or the personal interaction of face-to-face meetings, the Tricky Hubs have got you covered. Join us every Thursday from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm and embark on a journey towards better mental health.

BUB HUBS WITH BOTTLED UP BLOKES: FOSTERING MALE MENTAL HEALTH

To acknowledge the importance of addressing the mental health concerns of men, we’ve partnered up with Bottled Up Blokes to deliver BUB Hubs. These are open to men aged 18 and above and will take place on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the John Godber Centre in Hucknall and are available on a walk-in basis, no booking required. By creating a comfortable and understanding environment, these sessions encourage open dialogue about mental health, helping participants feel supported on their individual paths to wellbeing.

MINDFUL WALKS: CONNECTING WOMEN WITH NATURE

Partnering with the Canal and River Trust, Nottingham Forest Community Trust presents the Mindful Walks sessions, designed exclusively for women aged 18 and above. Taking place on Thursday mornings from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to combine the benefits of physical exercise, nature, and mindfulness. Explore scenic routes in Newark and West Bridgford, while engaging in conversations about mental health and building connections with other participants.

Upcoming Events:
Tricky Hub: Thursday 2nd November, 5.30-7.30pm, online
BUB Hubs: Tuesday 7th November, 7-9pm, John Godber Centre, Hucknall (drop in)
Tricky Hub: Thursday 9th November, 5.30-7.30pm, online
BUB Hubs: Tuesday 14th November, 7-9pm, John Godber Centre, Hucknall (drop in)
Tricky Hub: Thursday 16th November, 5.30-7.30pm, online
BUB Hubs: Tuesday 21st November, 7-9pm, John Godber Centre, Hucknall (drop in)
Tricky Hub: Thursday 23rd November, 5.30-7.30pm, online
BUB Hubs: Tuesday 28th November, 7-9pm, John Godber Centre, Hucknall (drop in)
Tricky Hub: Thursday 30th November, 5.30-7.30pm, The City Ground
To book your place follow the link below.
BOOK NOW

https://bookwhen.com/forestforces?mc_cid=62cb3c8dee&mc_eid=91d279f5ce#focus=ev-sq8n-20231106180000

006 APPEAL FOR INFORMATION

007 NOTTINGHAM FOREST COMMUNITY TRUST
Join us for our Armed Forces Health and Wellbeing Hubs at the City Ground. These hubs will run monthly on the first Monday of each month from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at the City Ground. The sessions are specifically tailored to address the health needs of veterans, providing a space for them to connect, share experiences, and find support within a community that understands their journey.
Armed Forces Wellbeing Hubs: Monday 6th November, 18.00 - 19.30hrs The City Ground
Armed Forces Wellbeing Hubs: Monday 4th December, 18.00 - 19.30hrs, The City Ground
To book your place please follow the link below.

https://bookwhen.com/forestforces?mc_cid=62cb3c8dee&mc_eid=91d279f5ce#focus=ev-sq8n-20231106180000

008 JOB VACANCY A vacancy has arisen for someone with experience in hospitality & management skills to act as Steward for a private member’s Club lunchtimes and occasional events.
Location Nottingham City Centre.
For more information please contact Contact Sue Bell 07742 138 125.

009 MUSEUM OF THE MERCIAN REGIMENT WFR COLLECTION

The Ministry of Defence provides a grant in aid to support the cost of employing a curator. The cost of employing a part-time assistant is met out of income generated by its endowment.

Today the endowment is worth nearly £600,000. It needs to be grown to £1.5m by 2030 when the MoD will withdraw the grant and the Museum becomes entirely self-financing. We need you and your support. How can you help?

You can help by helping us to fundraise anyway you can. Below are just some ideas of ways you can help: Make a regular monetary donation to our Just Giving PayPal Page Take on a challenge like a sky dive or walk Leave us a gift in your will

Have you been a fundraiser in the past? Then we would like to hear from you. Any thing you can contribute would help us in reaching our target. If the target is not met in the next ten years then your museum will not be able to employ a professional curator and the future of your museum its collection will be at risk.

For any further information or questions please contact Jennifer Brookman-Moore at Forester House using the email address curator@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk.

010 MERCIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM - WORCESTERSHIRE

When our Regimental Museum in Worcester lost its Ministry of Defence Grant in Aid of £20,000 p.a.in 2017 the Mercian Regiment stepped up and helped us for the next 5 years until March 2022. Post pandemic year on year revenue fundraising has never recovered and we currently need to raise a minimum of £2,500 per month just to stand still. Currently we are eating into our reserves just standing still.

We need you and your support: Support Us - Mercian Regiment Museum (worcestershireandmercianregimentmuseum.org)

How can you help? You can help by helping us to fundraise anyway you can. Below are just some ideas of ways you can help.
Make a regular monetary Gift Aided donation via: Donate (paypal.com
Take on a challenge like a sky dive or walk
Leave us a gift in your will.
Have you been a fundraiser in the past? Then we would like to hear from you.
Some of our experienced volunteers decided not to return after the COVID lockdown. We need to replace them for both research and administration Anything you can contribute to help us will be hugely appreciated. Our museum has an exciting future ahead with a new display due to be created in the Commandery by March 2026. In order to do that we need to have a guaranteed sustainable financial future. For any further information or questions please contact John Paddock at Dancox House using the email address: john@worcestershireandmercianregimentmuseum.org

012 WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ACT OF REMEMBRANCE
On behalf of Councillor Kyle Daisley, Chairman of Worcestershire County Council we would be delighted to invite the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association to our Service at County Hall on Friday 10 November, for an Act of Remembrance.
The Service will start shortly before 11am in front of staff and councillors. The Chairman and our Chaplain will conduct the Service which will include a two minute silence for reflection.
Light refreshments will follow to which you are warmly invited.

We would be delighted if you or any of your members would like to attend, along with your Regimental Standard.
If you are attending this event please see the notes below.

We normally undertake this annual Service in front of our Roll of Honour Memorial plaque which is located outside the council chambers. Due to ongoing building works at County Hall, this will be an outside event with limited access to the building so please do read the following instructions carefully.

The event will be held at Worcestershire County Council campus, Spetchley Road, Worcester, WR5 2NP. After you enter the barriers please follow signs to the visitor car park.

Please could I ask all veterans to muster by the visitor car park by 10.25am. Kate La Barre and Cllr Richard Morris will be there to greet you.

The service will take place by the lakeside at the rear of the building, which is about a 5 minute walk from the visitor car park. Signage will be put out but Richard and myself will be there to guide. The route is pathed with one or two level steps along the way. If anyone needs wheelchair access please do let me know as soon as possible as an alternative route can be organised.

Please do come wrapped up for any weather conditions – and do bring an umbrella if rain is forecasted! I know the weather will not faze you!

Once you are at the lakeside you will be directed to seating by staff. There will be space for Standard bearers and the bugler to line up.

Please see the attached order of service. This follows the standard Act of Remembrance that you will all be familiar with.

The Chairman would like to invite you all for light refreshments afterwards and staff will be on hand to escort you into the building.

Also attending the event will be the choir from South Bromsgrove High School who will be singing prior to the service together with children from Perryfields PRU who will be observing the service as part of their current Remembrance project. Staff, councillors and other civic guests will be in attendance.

013 REMEMBRANCE SERVICE - CRICH
Chesterfield Branch are hosting a Remembrance Day Service at Crich Memorial Tower on Saturday 11 November at 10.45hrs.
Please follow the instructions for car parking and allow sufficient time to walk up the hill.

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27 October 2023 WFRA NEWSLETTER Volume 14 Issue 48

001 ACT OF REMEMBRANCE AND COMMEMORATION SERVICE

ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

On the 109th Anniversary of The Battle of Gheluvelt

Commemorating the Achievements of The Men of The 2nd Battalion

The Worcestershire Regiment on 31st October 1914

Their counter attack saved Ypres from capture and the British Army

from defeat. At the end of the day 187 all ranks had been killed or wounded.

COMMEMORATION SERVICE

Held at Gheluvelt Park, Worcester. WR1 3ET

Sunday 29th October 2023 at 11:15 for 11.30 am Start

Service conducted by: Reverend Colin Butler MBE

Organised by The Worcester Branch of

The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association

in partnership with Worcester City Council

Standards Welcome

Dress: Blazer, Berets, medals

If you do not have these we would still like to see you there it is a public event
If roads are busy parking is opposite the Pump House, Waterworks Road. Worcester WR1 3EZ

There is a buffet afterwards at Barbourne Ex Services Club, The Moors, Worcester. WR1 3ED.
A Raffle will be held if you have any prizes to donate please bring them along.

If the weather on the day is heavy rain the service will be shortened. If you do not make the service please come along to the Barbourne Ex Services Club 12:45 for 13:00hrs

002 WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

On behalf of Councillor Kyle Daisley, Chairman of Worcestershire County Council we would be delighted to invite the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association to our Service at County Hall on Friday 10 November, for an Act of Remembrance.

The Service will start shortly before 11am in front of staff and councillors. The Chairman and our Chaplain will conduct the Service which will include a two minute silence for reflection.

Light refreshments will follow to which you are warmly invited.

We normally undertake this annual Service in front of our Roll of Honour Memorial plaque which is located outside the council chambers. Due to significant building works going on at County Hall we are unable to replicate this year, however, we plan to conduct the Service outside the main entrance.

We would be delighted if you or any of your members would like to attend, along with your Regimental Standard.

003 WORCESTER POPPY LAUNCH 2023

Poppy Launch

Saturday 28 October 2023

10.30 - Meet at Worcester Guildhall

10.50 - Form up in forecourt.

10.55 - 11.00 - Introduction

11.00 - Exhortation followed by last post 2minute.

Silence at which poppy’s released from Top windows

O/C Address by Vice Lieutenant/Mayor

The Exhortation is recited:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

The Last Post is sounded.

The Two Minute Silence is observed.

Reveille is sounded.

The Kohima Epitaph is recited (optional):

When you go home, tell them of us and say,
For your tomorrow, we gave our today.

· Following on from the ceremony we will be issuing poppy boxes from the forecourt

004 APPEAL FOR INFORMATION

Nicholas Lambert has written a book about his Great Grandfather who served in WW1, The book is due to be launched in the New Year.

Nicholas is trying to make contact with relatives of the officers and soldiers of 1/8th and 2/8th Worcestershire Regiment so that they can gather together at the launch the book to remember these gallant men.

Please send any information to newsletter@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk

005 WORLD WAR TWO MAGAZINES

The museum has been contacted by someone who is looking to rehome the entire run of World War Two Magazine by the Daily Telegraph. These were collected over many years by the lady’s father. If you would like them then please get in touch with the museum either by phone on 0115 9465415 extension 5219 or via email curator@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk.

006 JOB VACANCY

A vacancy has arisen for someone with experience in hospitality & management skills to act as Steward for a private member’s Club lunchtimes and occasional events.

Location Nottingham City Centre.

For more information please contact Contact Sue Bell 07742 138 125.

007 MUSEUM OF THE MERCIAN REGIMENT WFR COLLECTION

The Ministry of Defence provides a grant in aid to support the cost of employing a curator. The cost of employing a part-time assistant is met out of income generated by its endowment.

Today the endowment is worth nearly £600,000. It needs to be grown to £1.5m by 2030 when the MoD will withdraw the grant and the Museum becomes entirely self-financing.

We need you and your support.

How can you help?

You can help by helping us to fundraise anyway you can. Below are just some ideas of ways you can help:

Make a regular monetary donation to our Just Giving PayPal Page

Take on a challenge like a sky dive or walk

Leave us a gift in your will

Have you been a fundraiser in the past? Then we would like to hear from you.

Any thing you can contribute would help us in reaching our target.

If the target is not met in the next ten years then your museum will not be able to employ a professional curator and the future of your museum its collection will be at risk.

For any further information or questions please contact Jennifer Brookman-Moore at Forester House using the email address curator@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk.

008 MERCIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM - WORCESTERSHIRE

We need you and your support: Support Us - Mercian Regiment Museum (worcestershireandmercianregimentmuseum.org)

How can you help?

You can help by helping us to fundraise anyway you can. Below are just some ideas of ways you can help.

Make a regular monetary Gift Aided donation via: Donate (paypal.com

Take on a challenge like a sky dive or walk

Leave us a gift in your will.

Have you been a fundraiser in the past? Then we would like to hear from you.

Some of our experienced volunteers decided not to return after the COVID lockdown. We need to replace them for both research and administration

Anything you can contribute to help us will be hugely appreciated.

Our museum has an exciting future ahead with a new display due to be created in the Commandery by March 2026. In order to do that we need to have a guaranteed sustainable financial future.

For any further information or questions please contact John Paddock at Dancox House using the email address: john@worcestershireandmercianregimentmuseum.org

009 GROOMSPORT SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE

010 WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

We would be delighted if you or any of your members would like to attend, along with your Regimental Standard.

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21 October 2023 WFRA NEWSLETTER Volume 14 Issue 47

001 WFRA AGM 2023, RECORD OF DECISIONS (RoDs)

The RoDs for the WFRA AGM 2023, held on the 7 October, are now available. Branch members should have received this from their Branch Secretary and if they have not, should contact them for a copy. If anyone does not belong to a branch and wishes to have a copy of the RoDs, they can contact the Assistant Regimental Secretary who will send them one cindy.clark247@mod.gov.uk

002 WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL ACT OF REMEMBRANCE
On behalf of Councillor Kyle Daisley, Chairman of Worcestershire County Council we would be delighted to invite the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association to our Service at County Hall on Friday 10 November, for an Act of Remembrance.

The Service will start shortly before 11am in front of staff and councillors. The Chairman and our Chaplain will conduct the Service which will include a two minute silence for reflection.
Light refreshments will follow to which you are warmly invited.

003 FOREST FORCES SURVEY

Nottingham Forest Community Trust would like to invite you to take part in our online survey. Your insights and feedback are incredibly important to us as we aim to capture the impact of our programmes and initiatives.

Survey Period: The survey will be open from Monday, October 16th, 2023, and will remain accessible until Friday, November 3rd, 2023.

To be eligible for the chance to win a signed Nottingham Forest FC shirt, your survey must be completed within this time frame.

Survey Link: https://bit.ly/nfct-survey

Your participation in this survey will help us understand the positive changes we are making in our community and improve our services even further.

Survey Guidelines:

Please complete the survey within the specified time frame (October 16th to November 3rd).

Each participant is allowed to submit only one survey.

We value your opinion, and to show our appreciation, all participants who complete the survey will be entered into a draw to win a signed Nottingham Forest FC shirt. It's a unique opportunity to own a piece of Nottingham Forest history and be a part of our mission to strengthen the community through the power of football.

Your input is essential in shaping the future of the Nottingham Forest Community Trust, and we would like to thank you in advance for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. Your feedback will help us continue to make a positive impact in our community.

004 THE BATTLE OF AGINCOURT ONLINE TALK WITH LIVE Q&A WITH LT COL ROBIN PHAYRE

There will be an on line talk on the Battle of Agincourt on behalf of the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum on Tue 24 October, at 19.00hrs.

Lt Col Robin Phayre discusses the Battle of Agincourt (or Azincourt), 1415, and asks the question, 'was it the English who won, or was it the French that lost the Battle?'

The talk will cover the principal participants, King Henry V and Charles VI of France, and with reference to some participants from Oxfordshire, including the Earl of Oxford, as well as Thomas Chaucer, the son of Geoffrey Chaucer. Explore the landing at Harfleur and the march north towards the small villages of Azincourt, Tramecourt and Maisoncelles, and of course the mud, weapons, and armour of the battle itself.

With their ability to move and deploy swiftly, to think for themselves or quickly react to orders, could the archers of Agincourt be likened to light infantry?

Robin's talk will be illustrated throughout with aerial photos of the battlefield that he took via drone in 2015, just before the 600th anniversary of the battle.

If you would like to listen, please click on the link below.

https://www.sofo.org.uk/whats-on/agincourt1415/

005 VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED

Volunteers are needed for the annual clean and tidy up at the Gheluvelt Memorial (formerly Interpretative Feature). If you have battery powered mowers or strimmers and can bring them along please do.

Tea coffee and biscuits will be provided.

Please do not put tools on top of altar stone until it has been covered with cardboard, it has been painted.

Time 10:30hrs

Date Thursday 26th October 2023.

006 ACT OF REMEMBRANCE AND COMMEMORATION SERVICE

ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

On the 109th Anniversary of The Battle of Gheluvelt

Commemorating the Achievements of The Men of The 2nd Battalion

The Worcestershire Regiment on 31st October 1914

Their counter attack saved Ypres from capture and the British Army

from defeat. At the end of the day 187 all ranks had been killed or wounded.

COMMEMORATION SERVICE

Held at Gheluvelt Park, Worcester. WR1 3ET

Sunday 29th October 2023 at 11:15 for 11.30 am Start

Service conducted by: Reverend Colin Butler MBE

Organised by The Worcester Branch of

The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association

in partnership with Worcester City Council

Standards Welcome

Dress: Blazer, Berets, medals

If you do not have these we would still like to see you there it is a public event

If roads are busy parking is opposite the Pump House, Waterworks Road. Worcester WR1 3EZ

007 POPPY LAUNCH 2023

Poppy Launch

Saturday 28 October 2023

10.30 - Meet at Guildhall Worcester

10.50 - Form up in forecourt.

10.55 - 11.00 - Introduction

11.00 - Exhortation followed by last post 2minute.

Silence at which poppy’s released from Top windows

O/C Address by Vice Lieutenant/Mayor

The Exhortation is recited:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

The Last Post is sounded.

The Two Minute Silence is observed.

Reveille is sounded.

The Kohima Epitaph is recited (optional):

When you go home, tell them of us and say,
For your tomorrow, we gave our today.

· Following on from the ceremony we will be issuing poppy boxes from the forecourt

008 EXPLORER OF THE YEAR

A British Army medical officer who completed a record breaking polar expedition has been named Explorer of the Year by the Scientific Exploration Society.

Captain Harpreet Chandi, a physiotherapist from Derby known as Polar Preet broke two Guinness World Records, for the longest solo unsupported one way polar ski journey for a woman, and the longest solo unsupported one way polar ski journey overall.

After receiving the award, dubbed the 'Oscars of Exploration', she posted on Instagram: "Younger me, as a teenager, didn't really know what an explorer was and today I am so proud of myself. I really hope that, to be honest, I'm relatable to people and, me achieving what I have, just shows you that you can come from anywhere and you can start from anywhere."

In January, Captain Chandi covered 922 miles across Antarctica in 70 days and 16 hours, beating the previous world record of 907 miles, set in 2015 by fellow soldier Henry Worsley, a retired Lieutenant Colonel.

During the trek, Captain Chandi pulled all her kit and supplies on a pulk (sled), weighing around 19 stone (120kg), while battling temperatures as low as minus 30C and wind speeds of up to 60mph.

In February, Polar Preet was awarded an MBE by the Princess Royal at the Windsor Castle investiture.

009 WORLD WAR TWO MAGAZINES

010 JOB VACANCY

A vacancy has arisen for someone with experience in hospitality & management skills to act as Steward for a private member’s Club lunchtimes and occasional events. Location Nottingham City Centre.

.............................................................
VETERANS SUPPORT
The following are available to support veterans and their families who may be experiencing mental health difficulties;

Forcesline Tel: 0800 731 4880 (between 9am and 5pm Monday-Friday)
Combat Stress (24 hours)
Veterans and their families; Tel: 0800 138 1619
Serving personnel and their families; Tel: 0800 323 4444
Samaritans (24 hours); Tel: 116 123

M A DACK
for Executive Committee