There have been so many highlights for Forest so far this season.

• Beating Liverpool
• The amazing atmosphere at the City ground
• Beating Spurs
• Steve Cooper getting a new contract
• Jesse’s dancing
• Hendo doing a Samba against Wolves
• Gustavo’s skateboarding
• Yatesy proving his detractors wrong, again
• and more …

However, the real highlight of the year has been one that proves that not only are Forest magic off the pitch as well as on it, but also shows that Forest are back in a position to take a role in leading how football contributes to society.  

On December 22nd, Nottingham Forest announced a partnership with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees.  This means making the name of this organisation visible everywhere we go.  It means Forest donating cash to international relief efforts.  It means raising awareness of the great things the UNHCR does.  

Partnering with the UNHCR is important because the UNHCR does so much good work worldwide.  For example, helping the 8 million refugees who have fled the war in Ukraine.  For example, helping Ukrainians left behind keep warm this winter by repairing and insulating homes damaged by Russian attacks.  

Partnering with the UNHCR is important because refugees are becoming more and more discriminated against and unwelcome in the UK.

From Sam Widdowson to Viv Anderson, Forest have been leaders and innovators since the club was founded.  We’ve had some dire times over the past 10-15 years, but now we’re back and leading from the front.  The club has already been contributing to the community in Nottingham and the rest of the county.  Now we are contributing worldwide. 

FIFA shirked its responsibilities at the World Cup.  Attendees were denied their opportunities to wear their hearts on their sleeves and show where they stand on the important issues.  Nottingham Forest have now placed their hearts front and centre of their shirts.  My club has stood up to be counted.  I’m so proud of it.

And now, with the emergency in Turkey and Syria, the work of the UNHCR is even more important. If you can, please contribute, here.