The idea
The project runs one day a week, for eight weeks, bringing young members of the more deprived areas of Swansea into Gower. The aim is to make these wild places more accessible for those who might usually not be able to enjoy them, where they can enjoy various outdoor activities, and engage with wildlife, with the hopes of giving the next generation a sense of responsibility over these beaches.
The project combines yoga and delicious plant based food with fun outdoor activities and interactive wildlife learning, with a local wildlife expert, to provide a wholesome, holistic experience that not only sees their connection to nature grow, but also their relationships with themselves, and one another.
We all know the benefits of nature to our physical and mental health, and sadly it is often not as accessible for communities of lower socioeconomic status areas. This project removes barriers, creating a welcoming space for young people to enjoy the more remote parts of Gower.
What we'll deliver
- 8 Salty Society Day Experiences for Youths of Swansea
- Travel to & from the rural location for participants
- Plant based lunches
- Equipment (/hire) for activities (e.g. litter pickers, wellies)
- Wildlife engagement afternoons
- Outdoor skills
- 8 Part yoga series
Why it's a great idea
The project enables young people of Swansea to gain a different perspective of their local area, giving them a sense of responsibility over the beautiful coastline we are lucky to live by. We have all seen the devastating impact of our own community on the local beaches this year, with masses of litter left carelessly as lockdown eased. This project gives our youths the opportunity to connect to nature on a deeper level, and feel the benefits of it. The hope is that they will leave the project as stewards of the sea, with both small and significant changes in their own behaviour to protect the environment, that will inspire others too.
Participants will learn new skills such as stand up paddle boarding, foraging and wood carving, giving them experiences that will boost wellbeing, and the confidence to try new activities.
Gower is such a special place - those who've been will know; let's give our next generation the opportunity to love it fiercely too.
Steps to get it done
- Recruit staff & participants
- Purchase equipment
- Confirm dates of delivery
- Project begins
This project brings together communities from the more deprived areas of Swansea, with those who are local to Gower, to build bridges and hopefully life-long friendships. Volunteering opportunities will be advertised locally to include residents of Gower in the project, helping to tackle the problem of loneliness that occurs in rural populations.
