Network Ryde has received funding from the High Sherriff of the Isle of Wight to put together even more care packs for youngsters in the town, to give young people things to do and be creative at home whilst in this current lockdown.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic started back in March 2020, Network Ryde has successfully gained funding to provide over 200 care packs to young people around the Island. The most recent being given to the young people who attend their sessions at their Quarry Road allotment.
During this current lockdown and restrictions, Network Ryde’s allotment has become a safe space for over 20 young people to attend separate sessions, gaining knowledge in gardening, planting, DIY, growing and learning many new things whilst of course, following guidance and keeping safe. Some of these young people attend as a provision from their school as they find mainstream schooling more difficult and enjoy being out in open air grafting and learning new skills.
Network Ryde are still providing 1-1 sessions at their allotment as per the National Youth Agencies guidance and are having a good uptake on them.
Each care pack contains indoor plant seeds; pots, soil and spray bottle; hot chocolate and goodies plus a bird house kit and seed, along with craft materials to decorate.
Caroline Peel, High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight, says:
‘The High Sheriff’s Trust is delighted to be able to help the team at Network Ryde with their allotment project. This is very exciting, and I know that those young people using it will derive a huge benefit from it, not to mention pleasure. There is nothing more encouraging than watching green shoots come up”.
Network Ryde are looking forward to sharing their before and after pictures of their allotment to show what hard work and dedication has been put in by the young people and will be holding an open day when it is safe to do so.
