The stretch budget would enable us to deliver up to 12 nature-based sessions, as well as supporting resources, for up to 120 individuals from SIMD areas. In addition to reaching more schools and Care home groups, we would be able to adapt sessions and resources to reach new audiences including people seeking to improve their mental health and wellbeing; young carers; and autistic individuals via our connections with partner organisations.
The Scottish Seabird Centre is a marine conservation and education charity. Our science and discovery centre, based on the Firth of Forth on the east coast of Scotland, is the hub of our activity.
We are dedicated to inspiring and engaging people to understand and care for Scotland's stunning marine environment, and to support conservation efforts to protect it. Given the climate and nature crises, and the urgent need for action to reverse declines, our activities have never been more needed. These activities make an important contribution to achieving our overall vision: to ensure Scotland's marine environment is healthy, wildlife-rich, and valued and enjoyed by all.
'Connecting with our Coast' is a nature-based programme that will engage schools and isolated individuals (aged 65+) from deprived areas. The accessible, tailored activities will include beach clean and nurdle hunts; citizen science activities; STEM and ocean literacy learning; and wellbeing sessions along our coastline.
Funds raised will pay for programme design and delivery; a travel subsidiary to remove cost barriers for participants for disadvantaged audiences; creation of targeted resources (physical and digital, to achieve long-term impact; bespoke materials; programme support costs; and training for our staff so that they are better able to engage these audiences (e.g. British Sign Language, dementia, neurodiversity).
Donations will be matched pound for pound up to £250, by the Aviva Community Fund.
Every pound you are able to afford helps nurture positive interactions between people and nature. Thank you!