AUGUST 2026
HEATWAVES
This newsletter comes to you from a hot, darkened kitchen, with a laptop balanced beside a large glass of iced sparkling water. Outside, children are making the most of the summer holidays playing in gardens, while many of us look for ways to keep cool during another spell of exceptionally hot weather.
Smoke from wildfires crossing a road near Abergavenny
The summer has brought prolonged heat, drought and wildfires across parts of the UK. Across the Forest of Dean and neighbouring counties, many of us have spent days and evenings with doors and windows closed, keeping out smoke from wildfires that have been burning in Wales for the past few weeks. Like many people across the Forest of Dean, I've found myself thinking about the impact on local communities, wildlife, farmers and crops, as well as the challenges that extreme weather can create for our health and wellbeing.
These experiences are a reminder of why climate adaptation and resilience are becoming increasingly important. Alongside reducing emissions and restoring nature, we need to support communities to prepare for the changes already being felt.
At FODCAP, the past year has been an opportunity to listen, learn and strengthen partnerships across the district. Since joining last September, we have been inspired by the commitment of people, businesses and organisations who are taking practical action for climate and nature in the Forest of Dean.
In this edition:
A Climate Hub: expanding our support for communities
The future of the People's Emergency Briefing and opportunities to get involved
Reflections from our visit to The Grange Project
Simple ideas for more sustainable meetings at work or in community settings
Our Youth Engagement work
Thank you for being part of this growing network of people working together to create a more resilient and sustainable Forest of Dean.
Building climate and nature action
Over the past year, we've strengthened connections across the Forest of Dean and Gloucestershire through community engagement, workshops and partnership working on transport, energy, food and land use.
A key focus is developing FODCAP as a Climate and Nature Hub, helping to connect people, share knowledge and support local action. Behind the scenes we have spent the last year building strong foundations to support our future growth and are currently applying to become a Community Interest Company.
In the coming months, we'll be offering more opportunities to connect through events, drop-in sessions and Climate Cafés. These informal sessions provide a welcoming space to talk about climate and nature concerns, share experiences and reflect together.
Visit our News & Events page to find out more.
People's Emergency Briefing: From Understanding to Action
Graphic notes by Caroline Maggs @carolinem.artcreation on Instagram
The People’s Emergency Briefing has become one of the UK’s largest climate engagement initiatives, with thousands of screenings bringing people together in communities, workplaces, schools and faith groups. Here in the Forest of Dean, there have been six screenings to date, with six more scheduled.
During a recent webinar, National Emergency Briefing organisers shared plans to expand engagement with schools, businesses, councils and community groups.
Reflecting on the campaign’s impact, Professor and author, Mike Berners-Lee, emphasised the importance of helping people move from concern to purposeful action and recognise their ability to make a difference. He added that this is “by far the best place for any of us to be in” psychologically. This message aligns with FODCAP's approach to climate engagement and community action.
👉 Watch the webinar recording here.
Climate resilience and nature recovery
Earlier this month, we visited The Grange Project, where co-founders Tom and Chloe are creating a landscape where nature can thrive.
The group during a walk at The Grange Project
Since purchasing the land in 2023, they have introduced innovative planting methods that protect young trees while creating habitat for wildlife. We were particularly inspired by their Miyawaki woodland planting and their commitment to long-term stewardship.
Alongside habitat restoration, their charity Nature Connections helps young people strengthen their relationship with nature through activities such as bushcraft, storytelling and mapping.
The Grange Project demonstrates how local action, partnership working and care for the land can create lasting benefits for both people and nature.
Standing beneath a magnificent 650-year-old oak tree, it was easy to understand what inspired Tom and Chloe to commit to this place and its future.
A quote from Grange Project site: "The greatest threat to our planet is believing that someone else will save it." Robert Swan
The Grange Project offer regular open days where visitors can enjoy a 90 minute farm walk to hear more about their efforts to restore nature, produce food and help people feel more connected to nature.
Members of the sixth form at WyeDean school participating
young people’s voices
Between April and July, FODCAP carried out a piece of youth engagement, speaking to around 60 young people across secondary schools and youth groups to explore how a future Youth Advisory Group could work.
Young people told us they want more than discussion; they want to see real outcomes and meaningful opportunities to influence local decisions. Older participants highlighted career development and leadership opportunities as key motivations, while younger people valued social connection and rewards.
Our next step is seeking funding to establish the group and ensure young people can develop skills, gain accreditation and help shape local climate and nature action.
Small Steps, Shared Impact
As we head into autumn, we hope this newsletter has given you a few ideas, stories and sources of inspiration. Whether you're joining a Climate Café, attending a People's Emergency Briefing screening, or simply exploring ways to reduce your environmental impact, every action contributes to a more resilient Forest of Dean.
If you're organising meetings, take a look at our Green Meetings Checklist for simple ways to reduce waste and emissions. And with hotter, drier summers becoming more common, Severn Trent's water-saving tips are a great place to start cutting water use at home.
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