Amateur Radio for Veterans – A New Opportunity to Connect

The Forest of Dean Armed Forces Support Network is exploring the introduction of Amateur Radio activities for veterans, serving personnel, and members of the Armed Forces community across the Forest of Dean.

Amateur Radio — often known as “Ham Radio” — is far more than simply talking over the airwaves. It is a rewarding hobby that combines communication, technical skills, problem solving, outdoor activity, and friendship.

For many veterans, radio communications were an important part of military life. Amateur Radio offers the chance to reconnect with familiar skills in a relaxed and welcoming civilian environment. Whether you are completely new to radio or have previous experience from the Armed Forces, everyone would be welcome.

The activity could include:

Introduction sessions for beginners
Hands-on demonstrations with radio equipment
Learning how to communicate legally and safely over the airwaves
Portable outdoor radio events in the Forest of Dean
Opportunities to work towards an Amateur Radio licence
Social meet-ups with fellow veterans and enthusiasts
Emergency communications and fieldcraft-style exercises

Amateur Radio is known for bringing people together from all walks of life and can help reduce social isolation while encouraging confidence, learning, and wellbeing.

The Forest of Dean Armed Forces Support Network already provides opportunities for veterans to meet in a friendly and supportive atmosphere through the HIVE community events held across the district. Expanding activities to include Amateur Radio would offer another way for veterans to build friendships, learn new skills, and remain connected to their local Armed Forces community.

We are currently looking to gauge interest from veterans, serving personnel, and family members who may like to take part.

If you would be interested in Amateur Radio activities, beginner sessions, or simply finding out more, we would love to hear from you.

Together, we can build new connections — one signal at a time.

Veterans Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience – Join Us for a Day of Skill, Focus & Camaraderie

The Forest of Dean Armed Forces Support Network is pleased to invite veterans and members of the Armed Forces community to take part in an exciting Clay Pigeon Shooting experience at a local professional shooting venue.

Many veterans have spoken about the value of activities that combine focus, teamwork, and the outdoors — and clay shooting offers exactly that. Whether you are completely new to the sport or have previous experience from military service or civilian life, this event is designed to be welcoming, supportive, and enjoyable for all abilities.

Cast Away the Stress – Veterans Fly Fishing Experience in the Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean Armed Forces Support Network is proud to announce a brand-new activity for local veterans and members of the Armed Forces community — a relaxing and rewarding Fly Fishing for Trout experience in the beautiful surroundings of the Forest of Dean.

Following conversations at our monthly HIVE meetups, many veterans expressed an interest in spending more time outdoors, learning new skills, and connecting with others in a calm and supportive environment. Fly fishing offers exactly that.