Gartinny Conservation Project Shortlisted in Autism Professional Awards
The Gartinny Conservation Project is up for the award of ‘Most Creative Community Project’, which was last year won by our Fife Services for their production of The Tree and The Abbey. The Autism Professional Awards seek to recognise and reward services and professionals who are leading the way in innovative autism practice and making a real difference to the lives of people with autism in the UK.
For those involved in the Conservation Project, being shortlisted for this award has really emphasised how important the work that they do is. It was individuals who attend Gartinny Nurseries, our vocational day service, who first identified that they would like to learn more about wildlife and the environment, inspiring the creation of the Conservation Project.
Now, two years down the line, the group has had some fantastic achievements. From growing and planting wildflowers to working with Scottish Badgers to record local badger population data, the group has become an integral part of the local conservation community.
The Conservation Project group members are all committed to the cause and really enjoy the work that they do. Peter Griffith, project member states: “I like that we do something different from what I would normally do. I like adventures in the forests to look for different animals. The nature group outing is the favourite part of my week because I learn something interesting and I get to squelch in the mud. I really enjoy meeting nice people who have helped us with our work. We help them with their work too and we have lots to talk about because we all love wildlife.”
Jackie Latto, Director of Autism Services, commented: “We are honoured to be shortlisted again for the NAS ‘Most Creative Community Project’ Award. The group at Gartinny Nurseries has shown such enthusiasm and commitment to the project which sees them work collectively with the local community on important conservation initiatives. From planting wild flowers to monitoring bat populations, the project provides an invaluable learning opportunity and is a wonderful example of community conservation in action. Everyone involved is delighted to see the group get this kind of recognition.”
Well done to everyone who is involved in the Conservation Project! We have our fingers crossed for the awards ceremony in March.
