Year 5 and 6 pupils from School of

A word from us

Bristol has become the first major city in the UK to declare an ecological emergency in response to increasing threats to wildlife and ecosystems.

The announcement was made by Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees and Chief Executive of Avon and Wildlife Trust, Ian Barrett, in This builds on the declaration of a climate emergency in 2018 and follows concerns about a “worrying decline” in numbers and diversity of wildlife in the city.

Mr Rees said: “This declaration will provide a focus for the whole city to come together and take positive action…” To find out how you can help visit www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sue Mackinnon Editor

Our spring edition shows just how much local people are doing in the community – and what they have achieved.

The Small Grants event in January at Novers Community Centre where local groups spoke about their work was extremely uplifting. It took a lot of courage to stand up on that stage and pitch for funds (page 3).

There are many individuals and groups working hard behind the scenes to improve the area – and in this issue we see Skemer and Gracie Barra Martial Arts being awarded for their efforts (page 6).

Local gardener Don Jones has also been recognised for ‘making Knowle West beautiful’ and will be featuring in an exhibition at M Shed for the next four years (page 6).

Knowle Wester and England rugby player Ellis Genge has just been picked as an Ambassador for Youth Moves. He will be sure to inspire other young people to work hard and follow their dreams (page 3).

I’ve always enjoyed working in this area and been inspired myself by the dedication so many local people show.

The Knowledge has been a way of letting people know all the positive things going on - and although it is under threat, we will continue to keep you informed via the website www.knowlewest. co.uk and hopefuly another form of printed newsletter.

Get in touch: Call Sue on 0117 903 0444 or email sue@kwmc.org.uk Visit www.knowlewest.co.uk

February.

Visit the Northern Slopes

Avon Wildlife Trust is looking for local groups who would like to find out more about the Northern Slopes – and visit the nature reserve with them.

They also want to hear from people and groups who already use the Slopes to share their stories and say what they would like to see there.

The charity will be running activities and events in the area over the next three

Year of Can Do 2020

By Josephine Gyasi

This is the Year of Can Do - celebrating what Bristol residents can achieve - from volunteering and creating positive change to simple acts of kindness. During March, a two-week festival will be inspiring people to get involved in activities, events and training opportunities across the city.

An online volunteering platform exclusive to Bristol has just been re-launched - connecting people with opportunities within local communities.

Free drama workshops

Knowle West residents are being invited to take part in free drama workshops leading to a performance - to help create change in their neighbourhood.

The sessions are also a chance to celebrate what local people like about their area.

The Noise 2020

The Noise will be back in Knowle West in May – a huge volunteering event run by Bristol churches.

People will be working on projects across the city - from digging gardens and painting to litter picking and running free community events.

The Noise will be take place from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 May, with full details available in April.

Keep an eye on the website www.thenoise.org.uk and social media. years as part of the My Wild City project

To arrange a visit or for more information contact Hannah (Tuesday to Thursday) on 0117 917 7270 or email mywildcity@ avonwildlifetrust.org.uk

Volunteer Coordinator for charity Lifeskills, Sam Jury, who uses the website says: “… It’s the place to showcase the many wonderful and diverse opportunities Bristol has to offer.”

Can Do festival will run from 2 – 15 March, look out for details to follow.

To explore the new Can Do Bristol website and sign up, visit: www.candobristol.co.uk

The workshops are being run by Many Minds in partnership with Breathing Fire and Bristol City Council’s Community Development team.

They are taking place Mondays 2-4pm from 24 Feb to 11 May at Bristol Community Links, Langhill Avenue. No experience needed. Contact Viki on 07732 291 248 or viki@many-minds.org

A group of volunteers on the Slopes at last year’s The Noise.