Since 1993, the Forest Bus has provided a service to young people, children, adults and families living in hard to reach urban and rural communities all over the New Forest, and areas in Hampshire. During this time the project has gained a reputation for high quality face to face work with people of all ages and has enabled self sufficient groups to be set up in several areas. The ethos of our work is to encourage and enable people to develop their own resources. The aim is to enable and empower people of all ages to make the changes they want in their own lives – and in their community – by forming groups, taking part in projects, socialising and having fun. We provide an informal and welcoming environment, which is friendly yet professional and which can deliver services on the doorstep of those who need us most.

We employ a team of workers and volunteers who are qualified and skilled in youth and play work, child care and community development. They plan and deliver services in the community, right on the doorstep of those who need the services most. They also monitor and evaluate the work to ensure that services are delivered according to what people want and need. They offer a range of planned opportunities which include:- Safe and stimulating play for under 5’s, parent and toddler sessions, family groups and youth work. We also work with volunteers by offering them advice and support in setting up groups in their own communities, and any other development work which may be needed. We also support local groups which may need specialist help from time to time.