
Hello All!
David Meechan here, North Ayrshire Green Health Partnership Senior Project Officer for The Conservation Volunteers. Just a little update for you all on the North Ayrshire Green Health Partnership. On the 1st of May I will be going on Furlough, until the 31st of May. This felt like an opportunity to say a temporary cheerio, update you all and bring a little bit of positive energy into our lives!
It will not be a shock to most people we are taking a small break from our usual roles and responsibilities within Green Health. About a month ago, most made the wise choice of postponing cycling, walking, gardening groups for the safety of participants and wider society. So we have not been able to take part in our usual daily dose of nature, however I must say the resilience and creativity of communities in North Ayrshire to share ideas, activities whether it be in the back garden or at home or at a park has been inspiring. We all have a responsibility to follow the UK Government and NHS guidelines on COVID-19 and social distancing, but it has been great to see people being able to enjoy the simple things in life. At last I see people starting to really appreciate their local Greenspaces, so there is always a silver lining. There is some new guidance on going outdoors during the lockdown provided by Scottish Government via Scottish Natural Heritage. Follow this link here.
We have also updated our North Ayrshire Green Health website information with the help of KA Leisure. The website has ideas and resources for nature-based activities, gardening, environmental art, and physical exercise. It also contains links similar to this blog for wider advice on going outdoors during COVID-19. Please follow this link to get more information here.
We unfortunately had to pause the Green Health Development Fund due to COVID-19, but I am pleased to remind people that this is just a delay. We will be back (as Arnold would say) and we will deliver the Green Health Development fund. Organisations and groups will be able to apply for grants up to £1500, £5000, and £10,000. Just think of all the good we could help to deliver within our communities and local environment with these funds once lockdown and social distancing measures are lifted. Imagine!
I think all of us who work in the natural environment with people realise the amazing difference it can make to people’s lives. The benefits to peoples physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Something we are always flying the banner for and helping shout out about. To help us promote this message we have a brand-new shiny animation video to illustrate these benefits. Follow this link here to watch.
Once things calm down there is going to be an even greater need for cycling groups, Nordic Walking, Green Gyms, food growing and horticulture. As we are all going through our own struggles and misfortunes it will mean that much more when we are able to take part in group activities again. Help bring in new people who may benefit greatly and share our experiences of quarantine gardening. We will have a newfound appreciation for each other and that simple task of working as a team to plant those potatoes, sow a wildflower meadow, learn about migrating Birds and about each other’s passions and enthusiasm.
I want to finish off by saying that I hope that the next few weeks are kind to you and that nobody suffers. I am looking forward to seeing people again and promoting all of the great work that you do day in and day out for people and nature. Take care for now folks, stay safe and stay home!
David