As my year as Chairman comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what truly defines Hart. It isn’t the buildings, the budgets, or even the policies, although they are important. It’s the people. Time and again this year, I’ve seen our community step forward with a generosity of spirit that deserves recognition.
Our volunteers: The quiet engine of Hart
From parish litter picks to food bank deliveries, from youth clubs to environmental groups, volunteers have been the steady heartbeat of our district. They don’t ask for applause, but they certainly deserve it. I’ve met residents who give up evenings, weekends, and sometimes sleep, simply because they care about their neighbours and want Hart to thrive. Their work often fills the gaps no council could ever fully reach. It strengthens our resilience, builds friendships, and reminds us that community isn’t something we inherit, it’s something we build together.
Standing with our veterans
As Hart’s Armed Forces Champion, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with veterans and their families. Many carry difficult experiences they rarely speak about, yet they continue to contribute quietly and powerfully to our district. But they also carry the huge positives and camaraderie of our Armed and Civilian Services.
This year reinforced something I’ve long believed: support for veterans must be proactive, not reactive. Some will never ask for help, even when they need it most. That’s why our partnerships with local charities, service organisations, and community groups matter so much. Whether it’s housing advice, employment support, or simply someone to talk to, we must remain present, attentive, and ready.
Our service community enriches Hart in ways that go far beyond the economic footprint of our bases. They bring discipline, compassion, humour, and a deep sense of duty. We owe them not only our gratitude, but our ongoing commitment.
Mental health: A shared responsibility
Across schools, workplaces, and community groups, one theme has come up again and again: mental health. The pressures on families, young people, and older residents are real, and they’re growing. I’ve spoken with teachers, volunteers, veterans, and carers who all say the same thing, people are struggling, often quietly.
But I’ve also seen the best of Hart in how we respond. Local charities offering safe spaces. Schools building wellbeing into their daily routines. Volunteers checking in on isolated neighbours. Councillors and officers working to ensure services are accessible and joined‑up.
If there’s one message I want to carry forward, it’s this: mental health is not a niche issue. It’s a community issue. Every act of kindness, every conversation, every moment of patience helps.
Thank you
I’ve been proud to represent Hart, but even prouder to witness the compassion, resilience, and quiet heroism that defines it. To every volunteer, every veteran, every teacher, every carer, every resident who has stepped forward in ways large or small: thank you. You are the reason Hart continues to be a district we can all be proud of.
I will shortly hand over to a new Chairman, please do consider involving them in your community events, email: chairman@hart.gov.uk
Warmest regards,
Chris Dorn
Chairman, Hart District Council (2025-26)