Latest News

The Forest Forces programme, delivered by the Nottingham Forest Foundation, has been awarded the prestigious Health and Wellbeing Award at the fourth annual Boots and Beret Awards.

The ceremony brought together around 240 dignitaries, Armed Forces champions, and local organisations to celebrate the outstanding dedication of Nottinghamshire’s military community. Organised by Nottinghamshire County Council, the awards highlight individuals and initiatives going above and beyond to support serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets, and their families.

The Forest Forces programme atook home the Health and Wellbeing Award, sponsored by SCAPE, in recognition of its impactful work tackling social isolation, promoting physical activity, and strengthening community connection among local veterans through inclusive, accessible sessions.

Accepting the award was Brian Dacunha, Forest Forces Assistant at Nottingham Forest Foundation:

“I’m absolutely stunned to win this award. Even being nominated was amazing. I’m really proud as it’s recognition, not just for me, but for the whole Forest Forces team. This event highlights all the good work happening across Nottinghamshire.

What makes this award even more special is the veterans and Armed Forces community themselves. This is a recognition of their contribution to Forest Forces too – they are the ones attending the events and activities, forging great friendships, and keeping the Forest Forces connection going.

We also have a fantastic Foundation team behind us who support us with everything we do. It really is one huge team, and everyone involved deserves to be recognised.”

Delivered by the Nottingham Forest Foundation, Forest Forces provides a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for military veterans and individuals from public service backgrounds of all ages.

The Foundation, which holds the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, uses the power of football, social activity, and physical health to ensure former service personnel stay connected long after leaving active service.

To tackle social isolation and promote positive health, Forest Forces delivers a rich schedule of regular free activities and events:

• Forest Forces Breakfast Club (The City Ground): Hosted in the Garibaldi Lounge at The City Ground, these regular morning meetups bring veterans together over breakfast to catch up, share experiences, and access signposted health and welfare support.
• Forest Forces Fives (The Forest Sports Hub): Weekly small-sided football sessions designed to help veterans stay physically active, improve fitness, and enjoy team camaraderie in a relaxed setting.
• Outdoor & Active Wellbeing Trips: Outdoor events tailored for physical health and social bonding, including scenic group walks such as Nordic walking at Attenborough Nature Reserve and canal walks/cruises along the Chesterfield Canal.
• Life Skills & Practical Training: Educational workshops and safety courses – including practical training like defibrillator and first-aid sessions – giving veterans continuous opportunities to build life-saving skills.

Councillor Kelvin Wright, Armed Forces Champion for Nottinghamshire County Council, extended his congratulations to the winners:

“It was a real privilege to attend this year’s Boots and Beret Awards and celebrate the outstanding people and organisations that do so much to support Nottinghamshire’s Armed Forces community. From those who have served our country to those who continue to serve, and from employers and charities to volunteers and community groups, there are so many people across our county who go above and beyond to make a difference.

The Boots and Beret Awards provide a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on these contributions and, importantly, to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved.”

Delivered by Nottingham Forest Foundation, Forest Forces provides a safe, welcoming environment for former service personnel across Nottinghamshire to connect, engage in physical activity, and access support networks.

Forest Forces is proudly funded by the Veteran’s Foundation.