Emails and Statements of Support
Sent to Forestry England & local Counsellors
#SaveKensley
30 Complaints and counting…..
From: XXX HSE Officer XXX
Subject: Kensley Sheds - Complaint.
Date: 28 December 2022 at 15:42:44 GMT
To: "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, "kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>
Cc: "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>
Good afternoon
I was quite concerned to read you intend to close the Kensley sheds - Re Wild Project, even more concerned that you would choose to take up hastily action leading up to the holidays so instead of spending time with our families as I am sure you are doing now, we are writing emails to try to save such a valuable asset to the whole community and I would like to raise a formal complaint regarding the way forestry England has conducted itself.
As I understand there has been a disagreement between yourselves and The Re Wild Project, regarding the Risk Assessment written and safety whilst teaching the service users about ice safety. Something that our nations shocking news has shown is vitally needed, you could only hope that any further situations may have the potential to be averted with knowledge as it is in other countries. Shielding our citizens from knowledge about risks does not mitigate risks, education on Health and Safety is paramount. I am shocked to find Forestry England has opted to halt Health and Safety Education but not just halt Health and Safety Education but to remove the entire education facility.
It is hard to know what Forestry England's concerns are as this hasn't been made clear as it should have been, communication seems very unprofessional and lacking. So with the information published so far the issues I would like to raise on top of removing a facility that was teaching our young people vital life saving skills and helps many people with no other access to standard avenues of education and well being facilities are regarding shocking unprofessional conduct:
1. I can see that only 24 hours notice to shut the facility was given breaking the agreement between yourselves and The Re Wild project. 24 Hours notice for an organisation to shut and remove all of their equipment that serves so many is so beyond ridiculous I have no words. Apart from concerns that you have broken your own contract and instructing someone to do something that would physically be impossible to do.
How do you feel this has best served the community, for example as opposed to a more reasonable and expected response from the HSE like halting any further ice safety lessons until an investigation had been completed to ensure they were running safely?
2. As it would appear that no proper investigation, nor communication has taken place, it looks like a knee jerk reaction to a complaint about safety. Without giving any time to investigate and then discuss any potential risk and any risks that could be further mitigated. The reasons for Forestry England's concerns have not been properly communicated just that they would not have signed off a risk assessment, with no explanation of issues of any safety concerns found. Especially shocking when this is with an organisation who has a track record of and is very keen to continue to serve the community and work in harmony with your ethos.
3. If you are to use a disagreement on a Risk assessments as a reason to close the facilities provided by the Re Wild Project.
It would again be standard practice to request risk assessments be sent to so you could sign off any risk assessments before activities could go ahead.
To not request any risk assessments appears that you not only have missed your own duty of care, but to then only request them retrospectively and then shut the facility because you don't agree with them. How could The Re Wild Project have known this, what improvements would you give them to enable them to manage it better, they do not have the ability of reading minds.
You have set them up to fail. Conduct like this is not conducive to any working relationship.
4. As a HSE Officer myself, with decades of experience, that has worked with major organisations all over the country, I have read the Risk assessments provided by The Re Wild Project and can see nothing contained in them which would cause you such alarm that you would no longer have confidence in the organisers as you have written and would see the only option available being to shut the facility.
What is the justification for doing so?
If you had checked them before hand, as you should have done to meet your duty of care and there was anything contained with the risk assessments you were not happy with after establishing a procedure. it would be normal practice to work with the organisers to improve safety if you had any genuine concerns not to shut such a valuable resource to service users who desperately rely on this service. It would appear this knee jerk reaction has only happened as Forestry England has not managed the legal requirements properly initially.
Who at Forestry England holds this legal responsibly to meet duty of care?
Why was it decided to not check any risk assessments in the seven years they have held a license to use your land?
How if you had not checked any risk assessments during this time did you ensure you had met your duty of care responsibilities to the general public and your staff?
5. You have listed the reasons to shut the service because of issues with the Risk Assessments but you have not stated what the issues are. It seems mightily unjust to not enter into proper communication with the The Re Wild Project, not only would this be a standard expectation but i can see this is also listed as a requirement in your agreement that you appear to have not met.
Following on from a knee jerk reaction to shut the project just 24 hours after a singular complaint was made but no proper investigation appears to have been conducted either.
I would like clarity on:
- Whom was it that has checked the Risk Assessments to state that The Re Wilding Project acted unsafely?
- Who conducted the investigation and what were the findings regarding safety?
- Where is the copy of the investigation?
- Has this been shared with the Organisation you have accused of acting unsafely?
- What communication and resolution has Forestry England employed to try to resolve the issues?
- Is it normal procedure if after an investigation has been conducted properly to end an agreement rather than working with an organisation to find resolution that has been working with yourself to close to a decade
When it comes to the issues with the Risk assessment
What was the perceived risk that you felt was not mitigated to result in needing to shut the facility?
Who checked the Risk assessment was not adequate?
Who checked the risk assessment was not followed?
Where is the copy of the Investigating HSE officers report that declared the facilities actions as unsafe?
I am assuming all of these things would have already been shared if proper communication and resolution were in the forefront of your mind with The Re Wild Project.
I ask you as a service user that they can either be shared with myself or the assurance that you have conducted a proper investigation and have shared them with The Re Wild Project, To ensure resolution so we do not use a valuable service.
It does not feel as though Forestry England has conducted themselves professionally on a number of matters which is very disappointing, and would be so quick to jump to conclusions that impact so many service users, the impact going against your own mission statement.
I find it hard to believe a service would be shut over simple potential issues with a risk assessment when even a HSE officer cant see any obvious concerns.
I am hopeful it is the latter, however, is this the stance of Forestry England or just member of your staff that has not followed proper procedure to many peoples detriment?
XXXXX
DipNEBOSH MIOSH
HSE Officer
From: XXXX Workshop Participant XXXX
Subject: Rewild Project - Kensley Sheds
Date: 28 December 2022 at 13:05:25 GMT
To: westengland@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com, Mark Harper <mark.harper.mp@parliament.uk>, kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Dear Sirs,
I don't know all the details leading up to this decision to shut down the project at Kensley Sheds, or of any future proposals you have in mind for it. But I would like to give my viewpoint and experience as a past user of the site and a current Forest of Dean resident:
I attended a woodworking course there during last last summer, and thoroughly enjoyed the 2-day course using traditional crafts on the site. I found the tutors and staff welcoming, helpful and completely professional in their approach to:
- Tool use - specifically chisels, saws, routers and treadle lathes.
- Working practices, skills and procedures.
- Supervision of students.
At no time did I feel I was left unattended, and there was always someone immediately available to answer questions and give guidance on tool use and methods.
The food provided was excellent, nutritious and in keeping with the site.
The working areas were obvious, well-spaced and clear of any dangers (NO wires, electricity cables or similar trip hazards found in many classrooms and offices).
Even when passers-by came into the site to investigate what we were doing (potentially a time for lack of supervision), while we students were asked questions by the visitors about what we were doing, and interacted in return, at no time did I feel we were left to our own devices.
I feel comments citing the awful Solihull incident as a suggestion of what 'could' have happened, unneccessary. Such tragedies can and do happen anywhere. Yet, (ironically), it seems the Rewild Project's decision to take children to the lake to learn about the dangers of walking on ice has been used as a cudgel against them. Surely such prescience should be praised, not punished?
It should be noted that the FoD authorities are keen to promote tourism in all its forms, whether from across the region or from outside. (There was one such outside student on the course I attended). Are you prepared to kill off this very valuable and useful facility without, it seems, much investigation or discussion?
By way of comparison, I was forced last year to attend the A&E in Lydney following an accident at home. While attending for treatment on two separate days, I witnessed several incoming patients who had fallen off their bikes in the Forest - most of them from outside the area. Some had injuries worse than mine. Did anyone threaten to close down the bike rental operators? Was there a call to close the Forest paths and trails (which you, I believe, operate) because of these accidents? No.
Please think again about your decision. This site had been vacant and unused before the Rewild Project took it over and renewed the facilities; it would be a shame it it were allowed to deteriorate once more and become a draw for vandals. Even worse if it were taken over by a commercial body with little or no concern for the local area.
Yours sincerely
XXXX
From: XXXXX
Subject: Kensley Sheds The Rewild Project
Date: 28 December 2022 at 14:17:10 GMT
To: complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, enquiries.eastfd@forestryengland.uk, The Rewild Project CIC <Info@therewildproject.com>
Dear Forestry England
I am a participant/volunteer at the Rewild Project and I have attended for a couple of years.
I attend several times a week, whenever it is open.
I am 44 yrs old and I have social anxiety, psychosis, and depression and I am on medication.
Without "Rewild" I would be isolated and would have nothing to get up for. I would not be socialising at all, and learning new skills. Socialising with the people at The Rewild Project helps me feel less isolated and gives me a sense of belonging. I don't feel judged and it is a safe place for me to be most day during the week.
I am really worried about The Rewild project not being able to function from the sheds because my mental would go backwards and I would be much worse in so many ways.
This is my support network and my community.
I have learnt many skills including; foraging, green woodworking, gardening, forestry skills, and all the heritage crafts we are taught, it is so broad and unique to the forest of dean.
I hope you can consider how important this project is to me and many other people who may not have the skills or resources to be able to email you.
I really hope we can have a consultation over anything you are unhappy about to come to a fair decision taking into considering all of the people in the forest who benefit from this incredible resource.
From XXXX( Particpant and Volunteer)
From: XXXX Forest School Practitioner 10 Years Exp XXXXX
Subject: Rewild project.
Date: 28 December 2022 at 16:17:45 GMT
To: Kevin.Stanndard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk
I am writing this email in defence of and support for the rewild project based at Kensley sheds.
Having worked with children for over 10 years, the last five, have been as a forest schools practitioner. I know the importance of suitable and supported access to woodcrafts and outdoor leisure activities. I was lucky enough to come across the rewild project just after moving from east Berkshire three years ago.
The moment I met Emma and Scott, I was bowled over by the energy, commitment and enthusiasm. What they have built from scratch is nothing short of a marvel and what you have here is a gem of the forest (one the dean desperately needs) For two people to devote their life and energy to wanting to support our community through positive means, using experience, is something we should see up and down the country.
We are living in a period of 'climate emergency' to quote the governments and local authorities' own words and are obsessively trying to chase net zero goals and sustainability. Yet you have a project and community in your own garden which meets the criteria and are shutting part of it down due to a single isolated incident.
Whilst I appreciate the project's alternative approach to some activities. Scott is an experienced woodsman and crafts man, father of two and has lived a nomadic life for many years. This makes Scott better than your average Joe for understanding dangerous situations and how to stay safe. The whole point of outdoor education and forest schools is to take managed risks to learn and understand how to keep one safe and under supervision of experienced and knowledgeable adults.
I would make reference to the many fatal road accidents on the road and the many stabbings that take place. This does not stop us driving or using knives. It seems the opposite.
I would strongly urge you to reconsider the decision of evicting the project from Kensley sheds. It will be a huge loss to the poorest and most vulnerable in our community and goes against the ethos of looking after our environment and teaching the next generation valuable life skills. Having seen, first hand, the positive impact outdoor crafts and controlled risk has on children's development.
Thank you for reading.
Mr XXXXX
Forest schools practitioner/Teaching assistant and holiday club playworker
From: XXXX Secondary School Governor 25 Years Experience XXXX
Subject: Kensley Sheds - Outdoor Learning
Date: 27 December 2022 at 10:53:21 GMT
To: <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, <Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>
Cc: <info@therewildproject.com>
Dear Sirs,
Learning about the risks of iced-over ponds and lakes
I have read the version of events provided by the Rewild Project concerning events at Woorgreen Lake on Friday 16th December, and the subsequent reaction of Forestry England.
From the perspective of a secondary school Governor with 25 years’ service, and also that of an organisation that has similar activities and service provision to the Rewild Project, I would like to make the following three points:
1. Education about Risk & Awareness
Like many others, I read accounts of the shocking events in Solihull. It seems that the children involved had not had the opportunity to learn of the risks presented by bodies of water that have been iced over. It also seems to me that it is the responsibility of organisations such as ourselves (and the Rewild Project), as well as schools of all sorts, to use the opportunities presented by extreme weather to enable children to learn of associated risks, and safety measures that should be implemented. In fact, this is exactly what we seek to do, and the avoidance of tragedies such as that which occurred in Solihull is exactly why we do it.
Children (and indeed, adults) come to us with little to no awareness of these matters. It is not just the reaction to ice and snow that is of concern, but also conditions such as extreme heat, sun, rain, mud, and wind – all of which require people to exercise additional caution. It is impossible to exercise caution effectively if you do not understand the nature of the risks involved, and therefore using opportunities such as that presented by the deep freeze is exactly what we do.
2. Loss of Educational Facilities
I know at first hand the importance of facilities such as Kensley Sheds to groups such as the Rewild Project, and also of projects of this type to the Educational System. There are some young people, described as “high tariff”, who are unable to function in mainstream schools for five days in a week. One thing that we do is provide a break in that period, which in many cases enables the people involved to cope with the rest of the week in school. Feedback from schools is that this results in less disruption, better performance, and improved attendance.
Feedback from schools, together with the distance they are prepared to travel, and the number of requests that we are unable to cater for, also suggests that there is a shortage of provision of this nature. Even in rural areas.
3. Adjustments and Opportunities for People with Disabilities
Experience has taught us that most of the people sent to us because schools cannot cope with them, turn out to have some sort of Disability or to be on the Autistic Spectrum. It seems that is one reason why they struggle to survive in schools, and yet manage to thrive with us in what many people would find a much more difficult environment (cold, wet, etc.). In some cases people have gone on from us to careers in Wildlife Trusts, or self-employment in areas such as blacksmithing, crafts, teaching, etc. Meanwhile, their peers who have not had the same opportunities, continue to struggle and in some cases end up in the Criminal Justice System. Or worse.
I therefore hope that you will have taken into account the needs of disabled and vulnerable people in reaching whatever course of action you choose concerning Kensley Sheds.
Thank you for your attention,
Yours faithfully,
XXXNAMEXXX
8.
From: XXXXX
Subject: Intention to close Re-Wild Project facility
Date: 27 December 2022 at 08:31:27 GMT
To: Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
Dear Sir
I was disturbed and shocked to be alerted to the fact that without any reasonable notice period you wish to force the closure of the Re-Wild Project facility due to a simple misunderstanding of how risk is identified and managed in the outdoors. I believe you were concerned regarding a specific activity which involved children being led over solid ice on Woorgreen Lake. From the written information provided via the Re-Wild Projects website it is clear that the activity provider is more than fully qualified and experienced in such an activity. It is a relatively simple calculation to determine level of risk in such circumstances. In this case the risk of death or serious injury is Zero. The likelihood of an incident occurring is one or two. You multiply the two figures together resulting in this case with a total score of Zero. Very sensibly no mitigating measures are required for any activity which scores 12 or less. Nevertheless I believe the activity provider took the precaution of having a fire close by should any participant get a bit cold or wet. As I understand it their risk assessment proved to be accurate and no-one was harmed or discomforted during the planned activity. I find it hard to fathom how the described occurrence could be misinterpreted to the point that it has been used as an unjustifiable reason for refusing to renew the licence to operate a well regarded facility which provides a livelihood for a number of employees and has readily identifiable benefits to the local and wider community. I do hope that you will reverse the decision you have made as the matter gains more widespread publicity and the facts of the matter are made clear.
Yours faithfully
NAME XXXXX
From: XXXXX
Subject: Rewild project
Date: 26 December 2022 at 20:17:58 GMT
To: kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
Dear Kevin,
I have recieved news of rewild project being kicked off the land in forest of dean and i would like to oppose this plan. The rewild project are a responsible group who have been teaching important crafts and skills for young people. I have learned great things from them at festivals and they give opportunities to many people to explore new crafts and sharing skills that are beimg lost. It is clear the community benefits from their existence and hardwork in the forest of dean and 2 complaints of angry people verusus hundreds if not thousands of people that have accessed rewild project through various avenues. It needs to be weighed up logically and fairly and rewild project should not be kicked off the land.
Warm wishes
XXXX NAME
From: XXXXX
Subject: Removal of The Rewild Project from Kensley Sheds
Date: 25 December 2022 at 19:11:09 GMT
To: "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, "Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>, "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>
Dear Sir,
I find myself writing to you alarmed at the action taken against The Rewild Group at Kensley Sheds.
I believe the action taken is somewhat harsh and damaging to the community.
The Rewild Project offers people the chance to reconnect with nature and is fast becoming an integral part of Forest life, to take this away, without notice or consultation, is a grave mistake and to lose such knowledge would be a blow to local communities or individuals who have found The Rewild Project and have gained from them.
Please reconsider such action, as I feel this would be detrimental to the Forest.
Yours sincerely,
NAME XXX.
From: XXXXX Forest School Professional XXXX
Subject: Kensley Sheds
Date: 25 December 2022 at 08:28:11 GMT
To: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
To whom it may concern,
I am deeply perturbed to hear about the problems that the fabulous Re-Wild Project is having.
As a forest school professional (working and leading projects since 2006), I absolutely endorse the actions of the leaders in tackling the issue of safety around water and frozen lakes. It strikes me that there has been an unfortunate knee jerk reaction, because of the terrible events in Solihull, from people who are perhaps unfamiliar with the ethos and principles involved in the profession.
Many children will be traumatized and fearful after the shocking fatalities in Solihull. What the leaders appear to have provided in this instance is an excellent example of reflective and responsive practice, offering support to children who could be traumatized and systematically reminding them of safety issues and importance of assessing dangers. All of us working with children in this field, embed skills to help them learn to manage risks safely, build resilience and develop into confident and sensible people. Opening up such a discussion, supporting appropriate risk management- and most importantly, supporting young people to know when activities should only go ahead with adult support, strikes me as an absolutely professional response.
We apply exactly the same premise to foraging with children- learn the basics and only do it with adult support. Yet if we applied the same principles you appear to have done, and never did it, children are actually more likely to encounter difficulties and maybe eat something they shouldn't with deadly consequences.
Organizations like the Re-Wild Project have a massive role to play in supporting communities and children and building resilience. They need support and championing.
As a respected professional (vice chair of the South West Forest School Association) I am entreating you to reconsider your position.
This response is sufficiently concerning to make me write on Christmas Day..
Wishing you a Happy Christmas.
Kind regards,
NAME
XXXXX Outdoor Learning Partnership
Registered Charity Number XXXX
From: XXX Local Community Member XXX
Subject: The Rewild Project, Kensley Sheds
Date: 25 December 2022 at 07:34:52 GMT
To: kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
Good Morning,
This is a complaint regarding the closure of Kensley Sheds to The Rewild Project.
I am taking the time to write to you today to explain what vital services the Rewild Project based at Kensley sheds in the Forest of Dean offers to the local and wider community of all ages.
The loss of the sheds would be hugely detrimental to this amazing project and have terrible negative effects on the community it serves, as well as loosing the base to help educate adults from all over the country about the importance of our natural forest heritage skills in this wonderful environment you are custodians of.
I have been fortunate enough to attend courses at the sheds and seen first hand what unique and important work that I'm sure you are aware is being achieved.
Namely helping some of the most vulnerable people in our society get out, learn new skills, socialize and develop by teaching how to enjoy our natural forest environment respectfully. As well as offering a warm welcoming environment open to all.
The project is educating our future generations in safe, fun, practical ways to be sensible and respectful in the beautiful natural surroundings of Kensley.
Regarding any complaints that may have been made against the project I would please implore you to be impartial and fair. And try to assess all of the facts in context before considering decisions that would have dire and costly impacts on this terribly needed project and the community it serves.
Regarding educating kids about the risks of the environment it is so much better they learn practically with responsible adults than to explore and put them selves at risk with no prior knowledge.
Ive seen first hand in Holland many people, especially children ice skating on frozen lakes and canal's during cold weather. Being aware and educated is the key to preventing accidents.
I sincerely hope that you can see what vital services are being offered and positive impacts are being achieved here, and help the project grow from strength to strength.
With your support this could become an even greater positive model for other forests to follow.
Yours Sincerely
NAME|
ADDRESS
From: Rewild Participant
Subject: The Rewild Project
Date: 24 December 2022 at 21:16:27 GMT
To: "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, "kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>
Cc: Info Rewild <info@therewildproject.com>
My name is XXXXX and I am a participant at a number of The Rewild projects. I am aware of an incident which occurred recently and your decision to ask the The Rewild Project to leave Kensely sheds.
I am not writing to argue the case as I am sure they have already stated the facts about the incident and I hope and pray this is something that can be resolved fairly and for the best interest of the people who depend on the project.
However I am writing as one of those people. I have been attending for nearly a year and I cant stress how valuable it has been to me.From building my knowledge, learning skills and crafts, regaining lost confidence and I hate to admit even for company and support!
The Rewild project has been a lifeline to me, and for many others who attend their different groups religiously, and for every reason possible. From mental health issues to social problems, physical disabilities, the list is endless. And I have never seen an organisation support such a range of people with so many factors and do so with such professionalism and genuine kindness.
And I not only speak for myself but also for my son. He is 9 and suffers with SENs which makes joining groups near impossible. We have struggled to be included in various projects available and are always made to feel like we are or he is a hindrance or just too much to handle!
You see my son, however amazing he is, has the gift of finding the most dangerous thing available and then do it. Keeping him safe is like a full time job, This alone keeps us from being part of many things on offer to neuro typical kids.
Finding The Rewild Project has been gift to him. He, We have been accepted and welcomed in a way no where else has ever done. And whats more they have helped to teach him Safety!! Their knowledge and understanding of the outdoors has made both of our lives infinitely better. My son loves to be outdoors and loves to be doing. Loves tools and generally getting himself in a pickle. And at The Rewild Project he can, and they teach in a way so that he can do what he loves and do so safely. When I say The Rewild Project has been life changing I am not exaggerating!
My sons skills have improved as well as his ability to think before doing. Even his school has commented on his improvement, so much so they are actually paying for him to attend the Home Education days to support his learning as he is not able to attend school full time yet.
I understand that recent events with ice is a huge factor in your decision. But maybe a different perspective is in order. Maybe if those kids had something like The Rewild Project available to them, to teach them about what is safe ice and what isn't, maybe the outcome would not of been so tragic. And maybe having this available to local kids could save lives.
With The Rewild Project leaders combined knowledge being so great I have complete trust that they knew what was safe and what wasn't. That they did all necessary checks and that those children came away from that situation able to make safer decisions. Were able to keep themselves and in turn other children they are with, safer. Kids are often playing without adult supervision and I know as a mother I would want them armed with that kind of knowledge.
In fact as a society, as well as individuals we should be learning from those awful events by teaching more children outdoor safety rather than taking those opportunities away.
Thank you for taking the time to read my email and I hope that it has helped to show how valuable The Rewild Project is to all who use it and by taking it away you would be affecting the lives of so many people in such a detrimental way.
NAME
From:
Subject: The Rewild Project
Date: 24 December 2022 at 20:25:57 GMT
To: Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, beki.hoyland@gloucestershire.gov.uk, carole.allaway-martin@gloucestershire.gov.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, mark.harper.mp@parliament.uk, terry.hale2@gloucestershire.gov.uk
Dear All,
I wouldn’t normally be sending emails like this on Christmas Eve but this is far too important subject to leave till after.
I’m really disappointed to hear the Rewild Project has been asked to leave the Kensley Sheds.
My children have not yet had the opportunity to experience the fantastic sessions on offer here yet I was hoping they would soon but I have heard fantastic things from other parents and children about how much they have enjoyed time spent here.
I can understand concern around children and ice after what had happened else where in the country but to not properly investigate what happened here seems really unfortunate and at the end of the day quite cold hearted to evict such a important group at Christmas time too!
I really hope you will rethink this decision and look at the important work they do.
Our children already suffer from being more and more removed from nature. Parents have lost touch too and we all need help to get back to nature. I grew up on my Grandparents farm and in the countryside of Herefordshire. It was such a important time in my life to learning about myself and the world around me. I probably could have done with something like the Rewild Project to help me do so in safety and with adults who know their stuff instead of winging it with my cousins!
The Rewild Project should be held up as vital resource and protected at all costs not kicked out for teaching children how to act around ice water!
I hope something can be done.
Thank you for your time.
NAME
From:
Subject: Rewild Project
Date: 24 December 2022 at 19:45:44 GMT
To: "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>
Cc: "Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>, "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>
Good evening and a merry Christmas to you,
Please let me start by saying how shocked and saddened I am to be reading the news about the rewild project closing its doors.
I would just like to say how much of a loss this will be not only to the community but also to nature itself.
I have been fortunate enough for myself, my wife and my son to have enjoyed courses provided by the project. This has resulted in me making some strong friendship bonds with like minded people. Yes it is an alternative group of unique individuals but at no point have I considered any of their actions to be in any way dangerous. They teach real life skills in a real world environment where respect is gained by active participation. I know for a fact my son has learnt some essential skills that will see him through life just through conversations had by active leaders of the project.
This would be a great loss to the community should they be forced to close due to narrow minded bigoted individuals that have made a baseless complaint. In light of the recent tragedies I would be much more comfortable if my child had been provided educated and practical safety advice of safe techniques for checking on access/egress of frozen water. The “don’t do this” just doesn’t cut it in this day and age unfortunately.
I am more than happy to be contacted for further information should it be required.
Many thanks
Name XXXXX
ADDRESS XXXX
Sent from my iPhone
SENT VIA EMAIIL & SHARED WITH US ON WHATSAPP 26.12.22
It has come to my attention that the REWILD project has come under some scrutiny and I wanted to tell you how I feel about the project and what they have been doing for me and other vulnerable people within our comunity. This is a terrible Christmas blow for a community of people who rely on the REWILD project. They don’t need us but we need them!!
Please don’t take them away from us.
The REWILD project is the most positive thing in my life at the moment and I am sure that I am not the only person!!
I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2021 and it has been a hard journey full of difficulty’s.
When the pandemic came I was so scared for my life I did not leave my home once for the first 3 months. I started distanced solitary walks after that. Meeting the REWILD project and being educated in how and when to take risks like leaving the safety of my house. The REWILD project Gave me the strength to start doing the little things again. I developed all manor of mental health issues in a state of solidarity sickness forgotten by society I developed depression and anxiety. But With the strength of the REWILD project I am becoming a helpful part of a Comunity again. If the REWILD project was to disappear a Comunity of disabled and vulnerable people would be loosing an unbelievable life line that I for 1 moved to the Forest for.
there healing and nourishing powers are something that I am not strong enough to lose yet.
Please They feed, heat and teach An entire Comunity of people that absolutely rely on them.
You might not need there help but please don’t take this blessing away from the people in this community that do need there help.
I have never met as generous people as Scott, Emma, Frere, Christian, Charlie and even Dave (the caretaker) somehow the project rubs off on you and makes you in to a better stronger person.
Please we need them
Can you help us?
Thanks for you time
From: XXXX
Subject: Formal complaint re Closure of Kensley Sheds / Rewild Project
Date: 27 December 2022 at 15:55:41 GMT
To: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com, daj.wheeler@btinternet.com
I wish to make a formal complaint regarding the no notice eviction and therefore effective closure of Kensley Sheds used by your partner The Rewild Project for outdoor, environmental and ecological education and community projects.
My complaint is as follows
1. The Rewild Project has been given 24 hours to vacate the premises which has apparently been extended to one week over the Christmas holiday. It is hard to imagine that a community project that has refurbished an almost derelict property with £90,000 of lottery funding awarded to them (not Forestry England) and thousands of hours of community volunteer labour could be shut down in this way. A 24 hour no notice eviction that would impact so many disabled and vulnerable people must surely be in contravention of any lease agreement and is arbitrary and unfair. All of this community investment will be lost after less than 5 years use.
2. The eviction is the result of an incomplete and arbitrary 10 minute investigation. According to The Rewild Project website no formal investigation has been undertaken and the only independent witness, a Wildlife Trust ranger, is on Christmas holiday until the New Year. Also the other parents of the children involved say they have not been contacted either.
3. The treatment of the Rewild Project lacks Balance and seems to be based on the complaints of two people about a single incident. The Rewild Project has provided valuable community services for 7 years and in conjunction with the Police, local Council and Department of Education have delivered heritage craft courses, land skills and a nature connection in The Forest of Dean for people that really have little other options and who have not been consulted in any way in this decision.
4. The trained leaders appear to be competent and perfectly able to teach children about ice. All children are curious. It is much better to let them try something when adults and help are with them and can explain how to be safe or they will always want to experience it when they are not and we all know how that turned out in the tragic events in Solihull. I lived in Canada for 10 years and all children play on ice and are taught how to make sure it is. We would have no ice skating, ice hockey or curling otherwise.
I live in Sling in the Forest of Dean and became disabled this year. The social connection provided by the Rewild Project is very important to me and I have two upcoming courses booked in the next six months and so I am a person directly affected by your decision.
Your website states that you "aim to respond in full within 20 working days of receiving written complaints by letter or email". I very much look forward to hearing from you, and hopefully that you will pause this action, conduct a proper balanced investigation and consider the wider community benefits that will be lost.
XXXX
Address XXXX
From: xxx
Subject: #SaveKensley
Date: 27 December 2022 at 16:29:59 GMT
To: complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, kierongriffin@btinternet.com
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
Dear Sir/Madam,
I have heard that the ReWild project has had Kensley Sheds taken from them due to 2 people complaining.
While I don't have anything to add to the events that led to those complaints. I do wish to register my anger at ReWild being thrown out within 24 hours.
I am currently heading up Coleford Grows project, a community garden scheme. I would of not even started this if it wasn't for the inspiration of Scott and everyone at ReWild.
placement have also been so supportive of us and never once turned down our requests for help.
They have put so much of their time and passion into a huge amount of projects. I think it is grossly unfair the way they are being treated.
I urge you to allow them access to Kensley Sheds while a full investigation takes place.
Regards
XXXX
From: xxxx
Date: 27 December 2022 at 14:25:23 GMT
To: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
To whom this may concern,
My son participated in the Rewild Project last summer. He thoroughly enjoyed himself. We have not long moved into this area and Rewild has led to my son making new friends and increasing his confidence.
Connecting with nature has had such a positive impact, and I was looking forward to seeing him grow these skills as I know many parents were.
My son has been keen to carry on with Rewild and is looking forward to developing his practical skills. Rewild offer children an opportunity to learn practical skills and life lessons that aren't available elsewhere.
I am aware of what has happened with regards to the complaints and the possible loss of Kensley Sheds and feel that this is an unnecessary over reaction.
It would certainly be a blow to my son and the many children who access Rewild.
I hope that you will see that the benefits that Rewild have provided for the community are much needed and very much appreciated by both the parents and children alike.
Thank you for your time,
Kind Regards
XXX
From: xxx
Subject: Re: Rewild Project, Forest of Dean
Date: 27 December 2022 at 19:04:48 GMT
To: "complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk" <complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk>, "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, "kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>, "mark.harper.mp@parliament.uk" <mark.harper.mp@parliament.uk>, "kierongriffin@btinternet.com" <kierongriffin@btinternet.com>, "coordinator@forestofdean.greenparty.org.uk" <coordinator@forestofdean.greenparty.org.uk>, "news@theforestreview.co.uk" <news@theforestreview.co.uk>, "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>
Hi,
It has come to my attention that The valued Rewild Project in the FoD has suddenly come into conflict with the Forestry Commission so much so, that the Forestry Commission have threatened to remove their licence with immediate effect, without any negotiation or warning .
The Rewild Project is a non profit organisation whose mission is to re-connect people to nature and their ancestral heritage through arts and crafts, growing food, outdoor learning and community-building projects. They work with wide diverse ages and demographic of the local population, many of whom are vulnerable and who rely on the connections to the land, each other and their community which the project provides in an exemplary manner. For many of the service users the Rewild Project is their only lifeline as funding has been withdrawn from other public services eg: Mental Health, Youth, Elder, Sports and Community Services. This means that Rewild Project has become the backstop provider given by a skilled conscientious and caring team of experts with a wealth of experience in their field, many of whom are volunteers.
Their educational projects aim to connect children and young people with nature, encouraging children’s independence, which builds confidence and self esteem. They offer risky play, which enables children to learn to risk assess for themselves, building trust in themselves and their ability to self manage. Children (and adults alike) learn heritage crafts skills, gardening, foraging, growing food, cooking and preparing food. Despite comprehensive risk assessments and education on the topic in hand it is this risky play which has lead to the recent conflict.
My aim is not to get into any argument on the rights or wrongs of either party but to ask that you bring any influence that you may be able to help resolve this conflict. You can find out more here www.therewildproject .com/save-kensley
Regards,
xxxx, Coleford
I include below a list of potentially interested parties who you may have some influence with:
complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk; estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk; kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk; mark.harper.mp@parliament.uk; kierongriffin@btinternet.com ; news@theforestreview.co.uk; coordinator@forestofdean.greenparty.org.uk ; Chrisgpackham.co.uk (tweet)
From: xxx
Subject: Rewild Project
Date: 27 December 2022 at 19:40:31 GMT
To: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, info@therewildproject.com
Hello,
I am writing to add my voice to the concerns about your knee jerk reaction to complaints about The Rewild Project's recent work at the sheds. And your subsequent breaking of the terms of their lease.
I work with similar groups of people at Tortworth Forest Centre, in South Glos, and so have a good understanding of the risk assessment processes and safeguarding work that is needed working with children and adults in the outdoors. I'm also very aware of the huge amounts of knowledge and experience within the Rewild Project team.
I find it difficult to understand why you would make the decision you have to evict them from the sheds and prevent them from working with their participants. We live in a risk averse world, with adults and children unable to make their own reasoned assessments of risk in their daily lives. The kind of day that took place at the sheds, with people learning to take responsibility for their own safety, learning how to make their own decisions about walking on the ice, is exactly the kind of learning we need to share with people so that they can make decisions on risk in all aspects of their lives. Studies show that young people who learn to manage risk through risky play are better attuned to risk in their adult lives.
The HSE advises access to assessed risk, including trips and falls, for well rounded education.
I would appreciate you sending me your rationale behind the eviction and details on how you will be reimbursing the RewildProject for the works undertaken on the sheds.
Regards
XXXX
Director and Founder
XXXX
HoneyWoods Events ltd
Forwarded message ---------
From: xxxx
Date: Tue, 27 Dec 2022, 17:25
Subject: Rewild Project
To: <complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk>
Dear Sir
I am very saddened and disappointed to hear of the action being taken against the Rewild Project. I understand the need to investigate complaints, but what you are doing is unnecessary and will negatively affect many people who live in the forest. It is very clear that the children were not in any danger and were taught some very important skills and knowledge, which will actually help to avoid accidents in future. My child regularly attends sessions with the Rewild Project and I still trust them 100% to take care of her. She has learnt so much from the sessions and has even passed on some of this knowledge to the family. She now likes to prepare food and even enjoys fruit and vegetables that she never would have eaten before. The Rewild Project provides so much for the community and it would be devastating to lose it, especially when it is unfounded. Please reconsider and do a proper investigation.
Kind regards
XXXX
To whom it may concern.
I have been informed that complaints have been made against the ReWild Project regarding an educational walk which included education on how to safely manage and icy lake.
In a changing environment it is essential that young people are educated on the dangers of icy lakes, the sad fact that 3 boys lost their lives this winter is testament to this.
To dare consider shutting down the Rewild site in the Forest of Dean is ridiculous and out of proportion to the complaints levelled against them. Scott is a passionate outdoors man with many years of experience in incredibly cold climates, a perfect educator for the risks and danger of walking on ice.
To continue down this path of shutting them down will deprive the (already drastically unsupported) local community of much needed and vastly appreciated education, empathy and compassion that the staff provide from those sheds.
In my opinion those who are pushing for the closure of such a resource in the Forest of Dean should take a long hard look at themselves and consider properly the balance of good work that the ReWild Project does against the, frankly ridiculous, accusations that have been levelled against them.
Yours sincerely,
XXXX
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: XXXX Participant XXXX
Date: Tue, 27 Dec 2022, 00:47
Subject: Kensley Sheds
To: <westengland@forestryengland.uk>
Hello all at Forestry England.
I am writing in response to the recent eviction notice of the Rewild Project from Kensley Sheds. Both the site and the project are invaluable to the people who use this service. To just evict us without a proper investigation into the particulars of that day I feel is unacceptable.
I have been going to Kensley for almost a year now, deciding it would be a good place for both myself and my partner to go, make friends, and take part in some of the crafting sessions. I am a carer for both my partner and my physically disabled adult son. My partner has both physical and mental health issues and the imposed isolation through covid left us both in need of connection and community. We found both at the sheds.
The Tuesday and Wednesday sessions at Kensley cater to adults with depression, anxiety, social isolation, learning difficulties, Autism and other specific needs and we share how we are feeling that day, and on occasion why we like coming to the sheds during circle time at the beginning of the session. Several people have expressed the need to feel useful and valued, and at the sheds they contribute to things like preparing the shared meal, and make hot drinks for one another. One participant who is very severely physically disabled calls it her lifeline and every week says 'I'm just really glad to be here'. She has no social life outside of the Rewild community and does not leave her house, other than to go to hospital appointments. Another lady suffers with residual brain damage and she undertakes supervised cooking duties at the sheds, which she loves, as she is not able to cook from scratch at home.
Many people who use this service do not have the ability or comprehension to email their thoughts and feelings regarding Kensley Sheds and the Rewild Project so I feel compelled to be their voice.
Earlier in the year myself and Fran, the session coordinator conducted a survey to expose emergent themes and further study the impact of the rewild project on mental health. We asked the participants what they enjoyed about the sheds and we had loads of positive responses including;
Reduces social isolation
Helps with mental health
A distraction from issues
Physically being outdoors
A Sense of community
Learning new skills
Safe space
Break from family and home life
Non judgemental
Friendly fun and relaxed
No pressure
Acceptance, no expectations
Supported atmosphere
Feeling challenged
Confidence boosting
Skill building
Meeting people with common interests
Sitting by the Wood burner with a cuppa
Off grid, no WiFi, its a break!
And my personal favourite... we get to play with dogs
Over the last year I have watched people join the sessions and they have blossomed. Lots have found enough safety to open up about their experiences at home and throughout their lives and we openly discuss issues and support one another outside the project where we can. I have heard accounts of discrimination, bullying, physical emotional and financial abuse and the cosy, supportive atmosphere at Kensley allows such disclosures.
The Rewild Project will no doubt continue to provide support to adults and children in need, however I feel that Kensley sheds is an amazing place to provide this and hope we can continue to use it moving forward. The last 3 comments in the list above included things we would not find at any other venue and part of the reason it feels so homely at Kensley is the fire roaring, kettles or soup warming ontop, no phones to distract and a dog to stroke as we chat and craft together.
On a personal note, attending Rewild has definitely changed my life for the better. After approximately 2 months of joining in the crafting sessions I decided to volunteer my time, to help make the sessions run smoothly and support the other participants. I have been a parent and carer for the last 26 years and I feel like I finally found a purpose outside of my familial responsibilities. I challenged myself by applying for the position and undertaking the adult and child safeguarding training and did the First Aid with Forestry Course. I've learnt lots of heritage crafting skills and also found a new sense of confidence and joy.
Please find it in your hearts to reconsider the eviction as many hearts are invested in this space.
Thank you for reading and I hope you consider the impact of your decision on the people that use the service.
XXX
From: XXXX Cinderford Resident XXXX
Subject: Kensley Sheds
Date: 28 December 2022 at 11:53:03 GMT
To: complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
To whom this may concern
We have recently learned that our beloved Rewild project has had to vacate Kensley Sheds, due to complaints being made by uninformed, fearful individuals... making false claim that children were in danger during a Rekindle session held on the 19th December, that my son was a part of.
I cannot express enough how important Rewilds presence at Kensley Sheds is, not only as individuals but as a community too!
Being a local Cinderford resident, the workshops and classes within walking distance offer unmatched opportunities for my children and myself.
Outrage is already spreading through the community with regards to this decision. We have faith that this wrong doing will be corrected ASAP.
Kind regards
XXXXX
From: xxx
Subject: Kensley Sheds - Rewild Project
Date: 28 December 2022 at 08:49:31 GMT
To: Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com, mark.harper.mp@parliament.uk
Dear All,
I’m writing with sadness and anger at the way FE have reacted to a complaint about the last Rekindle Youth day at Kensley sheds, when the young people were being taught about winter conditions, ice, lakes and the dangers involved. I walk round this lake several times a week myself, and noticed how thick the ice had become over the week. I tested the ice and found it to be solid, so ventured out a little and it was still solid. I’m an outdoors person and used to making risk assessments on a daily basis - there was no risk of the ice collapsing on this shallow lake.
I also work as a gardener and the week in question was very difficult due to extreme cold, which got colder as the week went on. I had a large bowl of water in my nearby garden which froze over, when I tipped it out (after the rain started) it was solid and 9” deep by 18” across.
The Rewild project do a massive amount of good things for people in our community, some would have nowhere else to go for this lifeline of support and learning opportunity. In these days where children and adults are pressured more and more into an indoor, online existence, the learning days that Rewild offer are a breath of fresh air - literally. Life and land skills are a rare commodity in an artificial world and much needed. The Project needs support from bodies such as FE - not to be penalised and punished.
Yours sincerely,
xxxx
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: XX Local Community Organiser XXX
Date: Wed, Dec 28, 2022 at 6:22 PM
Subject: The Rewild Project & their use of Kensley Sheds
To: <complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk>
Dear Sirs
I am writing to you as someone who's been to courses & open days run by Rewild, and who knows something about the amount of hard work that's gone into building up the project.
I am writing to question the legality of the actions the Forestry Commission have taken.
If Rewild had a genuine agreement with the Forestry Commission giving them a licence to use the Kensley Sheds, there must be terms in that agreement regarding notice periods on both sides.
And given that Rewild have been funded by responsible major charities like Thirty Percy, and that their operations have been tested and approved by them and by education authorities, including their attitude to risk and their risk assessments, it seems unlikely to me that their behaviour would suddenly become so unreasonable as to require this kind of emergency action.
I will be making enquiries to find a suitably qualified legal practitioner who will be able to advise the Rewild organisation as a whole about the situation you have placed them in. It seems unlikely that the Forestry Commission has been able to obtain authoritative advice on this subject at such a difficult time of year, and I hope in the circumstances there will be further negotiations possible before legal action needs to be taken.
Yours faithfully
xxxx
Forest of Dean
From: xxxx Participant XXXX
Subject: Kensley Sheds
Date: 29 December 2022 at 12:59:16 GMT
To: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk
Cc: Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, info@therewildproject.com
Dear Sir,
I was shocked & disappointed to hear about the decisions you have to not support the Rewild Project & ask them to leave without even discussing ways to move forward after a minor event.
The team there do such wonderful work in the Forest of Dean for a range of people.
Ive attended sessions & found everyone so welcoming & the skills are interesting & important life skills. Also prevents people feeling isolated, gains social skills & a chance to meet people.
Some of the things they teach are even endangered heritage skills which should be supported before they die out.
I hope you can rethink this drastic decision to ask them to leave Kensley Sheds & you can work out a way to work together so people can benefit from the project.
Kind Regards
xxx
From: XXX Workshop participant XXXX
Subject: Formal complaint to FE: in support of The Rewild Project
Date: 29 December 2022 at 21:40:42 GMT
To: "complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk" <complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk>, "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, "Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>, "richard.stanford@forestryengland.uk" <richard.stanford@forestryengland.uk>, "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>, "kierongriffin@btinternet.com" <kierongriffin@btinternet.com>, "harry.ives@fdean.gov.uk" <harry.ives@fdean.gov.uk>
To whom it may concern,
It is with great displeasure I must write a formal complaint against Forestry England regarding their treatment of The Rewild Project team over the past two weeks.
Myself and my partner have attended a number of courses with The Rewild Project and found the team to be nothing but compassionate, kind, professional, and always acting with everyone’s safety in mind.
This is in stark comparison to the way this team has been treated by Forestry England, a so called “community” who are responsible for maintaining, protecting, and promoting sustainable management of woodland. I hardly find removing one of the biggest contributors to learning and promotion of the forest to be a good act towards that mission.
What strikes me even more is the frankly atrocious lack of communication and disgusting tight deadline that was thrust upon The Rewild Project to vacate their premise over an event that has been massively blown out of proportion.
Due to the fact that a key witness for the incident in question is off until after Christmas I believe the delivery of notice to be completely and wholly unfair. I also find it ironic that an organisation who have had large parts of its estates team absent for most of the year to be able to react to so quickly and excessively.
I will be keeping a close eye out for any updates about this situation and will not hesitate to take this complaint further if need be.
Yours faithfully
XXXX
From: XXX Local Resident XXXX
Subject: Complaint
Date: 29 December 2022 at 22:03:52 GMT
to: complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, richard.stanford@forestryengland.uk, info@therewildproject.com
To whom it may concern,
I was very upset to hear about the closure of Kensley sheds.
As a local tax paying resident I am fully aware of the incredible work Scott Baines and the crew offer to serve our local community.
The opportunities available to the people via this project are unique and allow the students to go back to nature and explore doing things the way our ancestors used too. Skills which are falling behind the way in this modern world, except for projects such as this which can allow people of all ages and abilities to experience something they are unlikely to find at the local college per se.
I am hoping that Forestry England will open up a dialogue with the Rewild Project and forge a way forwards to resolve this situation with the current project still in place.
I appreciate your time in reading this email.
Yours Sincerely,
Mrs XXXXX
From: XXX Rekindle Parent XXXX
Subject: Fw: Rewild
Date: 30 December 2022 at 00:24:03 GMT
To: "kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>
Good evening,
I am writing to you as a concerned parent. My children and I have been part of the Rewild project for over a year. We move to the area following serious domestic abuse, after being moved from our home and friends and family for our safety, it was a scary start to find our feet here. With not much trust in the world or idea where to turn to. It has been thanks to this project, their understanding of each individuals needs and their attention to detail when it comes to the care of the children that has made the transition to our new life a for filling one. I have been worried about the impact the previous couple of years would of had on my children. Not only had they been through a turbulent time but they both have additional needs. The Rewild project, has encompassed them with compassion and understanding. Allowing them the space to grow, learn and flourish. We have attended many different sessions and this has had a huge impact on all our lives from my twins who are now 2 to myself at 35. This project offers such a variety and has created an incredible community.
My son attends Rekindle. This has proved to be a place he has formed close friendships something he has never managed to do before. A real commeradery, he is always excited to attend, has so much to tell me when he returns and has had experiences I would not be able to offer him. I fear he, along with the other children will especially suffer if they can no longer attend Kenley sheds. It has become a second home to whcoh we know. My son was in attendance on the day they went on the ice. I am thankful that he was with experienced people whom I fully trust. This gave him the opportunity to experience the ice in a safe manner. My son learned alot that day and has really taken on board the dangers thanks to listening and then experiencing with adults he trust, with his friends in toe.
I am perplexed how this event can cause such immediate effect for a closure?
The Rewild project offers so much to so many. It is constantly growing and achieving.
How can an immediate closure happen without a thorough investigation?
The impact this rapid decision will have on the Rewild communities mental health will be vast.
My children will be absolutely devastated and I am concerned my son especially will recluse into himself. This is a safe outlet. So where he is heard, seen and loved by his teachers and peers. This is something he unattainable for him in a standardised classroom setting. The Rewild project gives me hope for all my children's education and mental health with such insightful skills for an exciting future.
The Rewild project care about the environment, they care about Kenley Sheds and they care about all those that cross their path.
We see everyday that the world needs change, more compassion for our environmorent more understanding on how we can change. The world needs more places and project like this one. Not less.
Yours Sincerely
XXXX
From:XXX Workshop Participant XXXX
Subject: Formal complaint to FE: in support of The Rewild Project
Date: 29 December 2022 at 21:58:55 GMT
To: Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, harry.ives@fdean.govt.uk, info@therewildproject.com
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to lodge a formal complaint regarding your unfair and harmful demand for the Rewild Project to vacate the Kensley Sheds. I feel this is a knee jerk reaction and there has been inadequate dialogue to come to a solution that suits both parties and the community.
I have been to several courses run by the Rewild Project including actives considered risky including: log cabin building using axes, deer butchery using knives and spring green foraging eating wild plants. My personal experience with course leaders, such as Emma Gleave and Scott Baine, has been fantastic. They are highly professional, kind and inspiring leaders who always held the health and safety of the group at the centre of any activity undertaken. I deeply admire how much they give to the community and frankly, am shocked by the lack of support from Forestry England, especially due to your “shared forest policy”.
The Rewild Project and the space at Kensley Sheds is a haven for many local people and I can say without a shadow of a doubt, if lost, will have serious negative impacts for education, social wellbeing and nature connection across different groups and people of all ages.
When I moved to the Forest of Dean from New Zealand in 2021, I only knew one person (my partner). I felt socially isolated, homesick and disconnected from nature. The Rewild Project and the incredible courses they run has been a beacon of light for me. Getting involved, learning new skills and being apart of a very special community helped me find my feet. I always felt safe and confident to take part in the risky activities and I was secure in the knowledge that course leaders were highly skilled and experienced. Never once did I feel like there was potential for harm to myself or other participants!
As such, I was absolutely shocked and saddened to learn that Forestry England has issued a demand for the Rewild project to vacate the Kensley sheds, with frankly disgusting “notice” and lack of communication regarding the issue.
I am following this matter with great interest and I support the Rewild Project wholeheartedly. To loose their presence at the Kensley Sheds is to loose one of the best community assets in the Forest of Dean.
Yours faithfully,
XXXXX
From: XXLocal Respected Community Member XX
Subject: rewild project at Kinsley Sheds
Date: 31 December 2022 at 10:34:17 GMT
To: westengland@forestryengland.uk
Cc: info@therewildproject.com
Dear Forestry England
I was sad to hear the news that you had ordered the Rewild Project out of Kinsley Sheds as of immediate effect. It sounded like due process had not been followed in that there can't have been time for an inquiry or talking to the Rewild Project about the issues that concerned you.
Which is disappointing since The Rewild project has also invested a lot of time and money in the Sheds. They have now become a unique service for Forest residents for workshops and skills learning, classes, and information. I've seen some of the people the Rewild has trained up and who have now found jobs with local contractors, and I have learnt and enjoyed some of the skills workshops I've done.
It is in the very nature, the whole point of the Rewild project to introduce people to and to do things that are apparently dangerous, but show people how to do them safely, sharp knives, axes, chain saws, fire, and ice apparently. Personally I would assume that the Rewild Project had assessed the ice as to whether it was safe to go on, worked out an emergency plan if something went wrong, and introduced the group to safe and unsafe practices on ice. If they had been thorough in their risk assessment, emergency planning, and on ice safety practice I would assume the project was within its remit.
Sincerely hoping you can find a way of calming your fears and keeping the Rewild Project in Kinsley Sheds, if they are closed down I don't see anybody else offering this kind of service/ethos.
XXX
XX Coleford address & phone number XXX
From: XX
Subject: Kensley Sheds, Rewild Project
Date: 30 December 2022 at 22:38:44 GMT
To: estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
Cc: Info@therewildproject.com
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to you as a teaching assistant, forest school assistant and most of all a Mother. I am saddened to hear that you have asked The Rewild Project to leave Kensley sheds with immediate effect and I am writing to complain about the action that you have taken.
The Rewild Project is such a valuable asset to the community and has touched the lives of many people, teaching them new skills, allowing them to access education that would not otherwise be available to them, supporting children and adults and also those that have been outcast from other areas of society because of their differences or additional needs. The Rewild Project treats everyone as an individual whilst bringing people together, through traditional, natural crafts and skills which have mainly been lost due to capitalism and computerised technologies. My 12 year old an I were lucky enough to have attended one of their foraging events last year, we learnt so much from the team and their wealth of knowledge, so much more than you could learn in any book. We were very much hoping to increase our skills by attending more of the workshops on offer at Kensley sheds and we would be extremely upset to hear that it has been permanently closed. I really hope that you will look at the support for The Rewild Project and treat them with the fairness that they deserve.
Kind regards,
XXX
From: XXX Rewild Participant XX
Subject: Rewild at Kensley Sheds
Date: 30 December 2022 at 16:35:51 GMT
To: compaints.westengland@forestryengand.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk, kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk
I'm contacting you regarding the use of the sheds ar Kensley by the Rewild project. I am a particupant at their workshops on a Tuesday and Wednesday and I get a lot of benefit from those sessions. I was referred by the Adult Engagement team after being referred to them by Dr Ansell at Colliers Court. I find the unique atmosphere and activities beneficial to my mental health. However, as I also have some health issues including incontinence I'm unable to attend other sessions in other settings as they don't have adequate toilet facilities. I am a lot more positive and 'present' as a result of the sessions at Rewild and have built up a network of friends and acquanties who are a support network outside of my family providing them with respite as well as me with positive feedback. lwould never have met these people without Rewild. They are across a wide range of ages and backgrounds but Rewild gives us all a positive non judgemental space in which to simply be and the sheds are an integral part in this.
I am asking you to please reconsider your decision to deny us the use of this valuable community resource which only provides positive experiences in my experience.
XXX
XX
3 January 2023 13:42
westengland@forestryengland.uk
Subject: Rewilding Project Eviction in The Forest of Dean FAO Kevin Stannard
Dear Kevin,
I am writing to express my concern at hearing of eviction of The Rewilding Project from The Kensley Sheds, in the Forest of Dean.
It is my understanding that you have received two complaints about an activity with children walking on ice on Woorgreen lake and that this lead to the decision to evict. I understand that feelings are running high following the sad and tragic loss of the children falling through ice near Solihull. My information regarding this incident is not first hand but as an experienced mountaineer with experience working with children outdoors, I do not believe walking on thick ice above a shallow lake like Woorgreens to be high risk. If the water is known to be shallower than the height of the children, it does not pose of substantial risk of drowning. I think that it is vitally important for our young people’s development that we teach them to safely assess and manage risk instead of avoiding it entirely.
I would appreciate if you could please explain to me the process that led to the decision that the activity was unsafe and how that led to the decision to evict The Rewilding Project. I would also like to know if any stakeholders were consulted before making the decision.
I have been attending the community sessions run by the project since the autumn, which have been an enormous benefit to me, personally. I have been inspired by what I have seen at the sheds and it is projects like this that are key in reconnecting people to nature.
I write this letter with the greatest respect for the fantastic work that Forestry England does in managing our nations woodlands, tackling the climate emergency and reconnecting people to nature however do I believe that losing the Rewilding project would be a significant regional blow to Forestry England’s plans to “Grow the future, for people” and I ask you to please reconsider the eviction.
Your Faithfully,
XX Name
XX Monmouth address XX
From: XX
Subject: Support to the Rewild Project and complaint of eviction
Date: 4 January 2023 at 13:49:04 GMT
To: complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk, estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk
Cc: richard.stanford@forestryengland.uk, kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk, kierongriffin@btinternet.com, The Rewild Project <info@therewildproject.com>
Dear Forestry England and others concerned,
I am writing to you to express my upmost support to The Rewild Project and for them to remain in The Kensley Sheds.
When I first heard of The Rewild Project and read about their focus, and I felt more hope than I have in a very long time. I have visited them before at the Kensley sheds and been witness to the incredible community space they provide as well as encouraging people to learn more about traditional crafts and outdoor skills. The range of ages, backgrounds and genders that they cater for in the sessions speaks volumes for the diversity they encourage and work towards taking the exclusivity and privilege out of spaces and opportunities like this.
As a heritage craftsperson I was lucky enough to work alongside Emma, Scott and the rest of the Rewild team this summer at The Landworkers Alliance Skills Fair. They organised an incredible space with a huge range of crafts and talks. They were flawless with carrying out check ins with each craftsperson as we arrived and ensuring thorough risk assessments were carried out prior to any activities.
If this request proceeds and they are required to move on, this would be a monumental loss to the community, not only locally to the forest of dean but also to a wider heritage crafting and land skills community across the UK.
I ask you to please investigate this decision further and put time into meetings to address any concerns you have, and to not take this decision lightly.
Yours faithfully,
XXXX
From: XXX P3 XX Local Housing Charity
Subject: The Rewild Project Service
Date: 4 January 2023 at 16:37:03 GMT
To: Scott Rewild <scott@therewildproject.com>, "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>
Hi Scott,
We would like to offer our support and give our reference regarding the Rewild Project and the value they have created for our service and its clients.
We manage a high support accommodation unit and dispersed move on housing in the Cinderford area that houses people who have been homeless and often have complex needs. Those needs usually fall within the following areas – entrenched long term homelessness, dual diagnosis mental health and substance misuse, learning difficulties and offending. Obviously the challenges the people we support face cover every other area too.
Our client group is considered by many to be some of the hardest to reach and more challenging by many services.
The Rewild Project has been more than exceptional in welcoming and supporting our clients to engage in activities that would otherwise not be available to them. They meet our clients at their point of need in the sense they come to our door if needed to help people make the big step of going to the sheds, tailor support and supervision and approach their work with real heart felt care and compassion. They always go the extra mile for everyone and welcome all in a really lovely way. If our clients cannot make it that day, Scott and his team try and try again.
The activities they offer at the sheds and elsewhere are just not available to the people we support elsewhere locally. They provide a place for people who often have severe issues and PTSD to get into a different natural space and emotional and practical mindset. This project has and is helping some of our most severely entrenched clients to do something completely different to their normal day cycle of using/drinking/sex working/offending/suffering with mental health. The building of emotional health from the type of activities and the relationships with people at the project are the result of their compassionate and flexible approach of the Reild team. They help some of the people look at changes in their lives they need such as rehab/voluntary work and real change. The project builds confidence and therefore opens up people to change.
We have found their referral, risk assessment, support, communication and feedback approach very practical, safe and person centred. Many services can be reluctant to support some of our more complex and challenging clients; we have found with the Rewild Project they have supported them both safely, compassionately and fairly. Having worked in the field of homelessness and substance misuse for quite a long time I cannot really understate how little some of the services can actually help the clients with severe issues in these fields; the Rewild Project absolutely does.
We genuinely hope their work can continue for the community as a whole and particularly for the people we support. The open space, flexible approach and genuine passion and compassion is needed to support the people we support. They often cannot get that support in a more rigid and understanding environment.
If you would like to discuss with me further please contact me.
Ray Donaghue
Service Coordinator
Acorn House
P3 Charity
07794964718
From: XX
Subject: The Rewild Project
Date: 7 January 2023 at 23:08:16 GMT
To: "complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk" <complaints.westengland@forestryengland.uk>, "estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk" <estates.west.england@forestryengland.uk>, "Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk" <Kevin.stannard@forestryengland.uk>, "richard.stanford@forestryengland.uk" <richard.stanford@forestryengland.uk>
Cc: "info@therewildproject.com" <info@therewildproject.com>, "kierongriffin@btinternet.com" <kierongriffin@btinternet.com>
Dear Forestry England
I have received information via my sister who lives in the Forest about an inspiring project called The Rewild Project, which has been a game-changer for many vulnerable young people in the area over the last few years. The group have clearly invested hugely into Kensley sheds and the leaders in the organisation, and made excellent use of an otherwise neglected site.
I was very disturbed to hear that the project has been asked to immediately leave the sheds following concern over young people on a frozen pond. The risk assessment shows careful thought and the experience of the leaders is first class in respect of making decisions about the safety of the ice in question.
This project has been an absolute asset to the area. To lose it would adversely affect the some of the most vulnerable young people in the area. Once gone, how could funding be found to provide similar benefit to these groups of young people?
I am a teacher who has worked with vulnerable teenagers. The best practice way to keep young people safe, able to assess dangers themselves, and respectful of risks, is to educate them practically as The Wild Project have been doing. I strongly believe that the recent tragic deaths of four children would not have happened if they had had this kind of education. The same event could not have happened at Woorgreen Lake as it is not deep and was frozen to 60cm.
I have also home educated my two children. They benefitted hugely from Forest School groups where leaders were well trained and introduced activities to help them learn about the skills, risks and importance of countryside skills.
I would very much like to hear the justification for this call to vacate the sheds and how the young people can be alternatively provided for.
Yours concerned,
XX
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