Partnership has been 'transformative'

HUNDREDS of young people in Dumfries and Galloway have been able to take part in water safety training, nature education and community resilience projects as part of an ongoing partnership between Drax and the Loch Ken Trust. Now entering its second year of a three-year commitment, the partnership has expanded opportunities for youngsters to learn practical skills outdoors, strengthened safety on and around the loch. The first year saw the launch and expansion of the Loch Ken Youth Water Safety Programme and 24 sessions were delivered to schools and youth organisations including Dalbeattie High, Wallacehall Academy, Castle Douglas High, Kirkcudbright Academy, Kirkcudbright Sea Cadets and Dumfries Disability Sports. In total, 209 young people received training. The Galloway Activity Centre was also awarded Paddle Award UK accreditation for its role in the delivery of the sessions. The partnership also enabled Loch Ken Trust to provide an additional 260 ranger hours during peak season. Lindsay Stewart, Loch Ken Trust manager, said: “The support from Drax has been transformative. It’s enabled us to expand our water safety programme, grow our ranger service, and connect more young people with nature. “Together, we’re making a real difference for local communities and the environment.” Education has been another major success, with sessions held for Crossmichael Primary, Dalry Primary, Glenkens Youth Group and Glenkens Cubs. Over 100 children took part campfire safety, responsible camping, Scottish Outdoor Access Code sessions and invasive species awareness.

In addition, 25 undergraduates and postgraduates from universities including Glasgow, Teesside, Lancaster and Exeter visited for case studies and fieldwork on cold water shock, ecosystem monitoring and community sustainability. “This partnership is a great example of how Drax works with local organisations to deliver on the goals set out in our sustainability framework,” said Sarah Baird, Drax’s community manager for Scotland. “The first year has already achieved so much, and we’re excited to see what more can be delivered in year two.” Already in the second year, the trust has delivered more ranger hours, water safety training and nature-based education sessions. Plans for this year place an increasing emphasis on climate awareness and outdoor learning.