International Women's Day

Today, on International Women’s Day, I want to recognise a woman who has spent decades standing up for women across the Forest of Dean – Di Martin.

Born at the Dilke and a proud Forester, Di was the first in her family to go to university and has always carried a strong sense of justice and fairness.

Her life changed dramatically at 31 when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour, leaving her temporarily disabled and facing immense challenges. Rather than holding her back, this experience sparked her determination to support others, inspiring her vital work at the Forest Road Centre – helping people rebuild confidence, find independence, and creating safe spaces for women to be empowered.

Di supported people facing unemployment, substance misuse and homelessness, helping them rebuild confidence and find a way forward. But one issue in particular became a defining part of her work – supporting women who had experienced domestic abuse.

In the late 1980s, Di helped organise one of the first Women’s Day initiatives locally – creating a safe space for women who were out of work or experiencing abuse at home. It offered hot meals, practical advice, confidence and assertiveness courses, and most importantly, a supportive environment where women could rebuild their strength and independence.

That commitment has continued ever since. For more than 25 years, Di has been a tireless advocate for women facing domestic abuse, particularly in rural communities where it can too often remain hidden. She worked closely with the Forest of Dean Women’s Refuge, supporting women and children both in refuge and across the community, and has chaired the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Forum.

Over the years, countless women in the Forest of Dean have found support, confidence and hope through Di’s work – helping them believe in themselves again and take practical steps towards a safer life.

In politics, too, Di has helped lead the way for women locally and beyond. First elected to the council in 1989, she has now served the community for nearly 37 years, always guided by the same principle: giving a voice to those who don’t have one.

At 72, her determination to stand up for women across the Forest of Dean remains as strong as ever.

I know so many will share my appreciation for Di. On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate an extraordinary woman who continues to be a lifeline and a champion for women across the Forest of Dean and beyond.

Di – thank you. You embody the spirit of International Women’s Day, showing us all that together we can make a real difference to ensure women are safe, supported, and empowered.

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