NATURE CORRIDOR PROJECT EXTENDED FOR FOUR YEARS

An important extension to a Sussex pilot project has just been agreed by the European Union. 'Nature Corridors for All' has enabled adults with learning disabilities on both sides of the Channel to record change at several wildlife sites along a corridor comprised of the Vanguard Way in England and the Avenue Verte in France. In the pilot year, two leaflets were published, a website was launched of the participants' work on www.riverocean.org.uk and two exchange visits were held. Now there are plans to develop every aspect in addition to e-learning materials for people around the country with learning disabilities as well as a multi-media sponsored walk in England and France in 2008.

The £176,000 four year extension is a collaboration between East Sussex County Council Social Services, the Railway Land Wildlife Trust and Lewes District Council, spearheaded by the River Ocean Foundation.

Councillor Joy Waite, East Sussex County Council Lead Member for Social Services, said: 'I am delighted that the additional funding has been agreed by the EU. It will mean that adults with learning disabilities can continue to increase their independence by learning new skills and playing an active role in the community.'

Clive Pepe of River Ocean said that despite a 40% grant instead of the 50% they were hoping for, the exceptional granting of a four year contract will allow continuity and consolidation for the participants that will lead to a sustainable project that will last for many years.

Said participant, Alec Bennison, 'When we started it was all new but we thought 'give it a go'. We all get on with the work and learn new jobs. It was a new experience to work with the Ranger who is very helpful to us. I think that we are helping the environment.

It feels good when people walking through the Railway Land site recognise us and say 'hello'. Meeting the French participants and visiting their sites was brilliant. It is interesting to keep in touch on the computers. I have made a model of the Railway Land site and it feels really good when people praise it. I would like to show or teach people all the new things that I have learnt on this project and am really pleased that it is going to continue.'

CONTACT DETAILS
River Ocean Foundation: Clive Pepe 01273 234032
ESCC Social Services: St Nicholas Centre 01273 480906
Project Manager: Dr John Parry 01273 471332