natural
Perth & Kinross has a wealth of natural assets to capitalise on as part of the youth work offer.
YMCA referred to the parks, lochs and rivers, not least the Tay - Scotland's longest river which runs through Perthshire. Wildlife from bugs to beavers are abundant.
Kythe in Kinross, rests on the shore of the famous Loch Leven where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned prior to her execution. This exemplifies ties between the land, culture and history which partners have explored more readily this year.
Breathe stepped out to the immediate vicinity of the youth centre, with gazebos providing make-shift shelters for safe connections with young people in all localities. Regular walk and talk activites were also popular. Places such as Alyth and Logos made good use of their garden areas.
Partners took to local parks, with ready installed play equipment, skate parks, mountain bike trails, water sports, multi-sports-games areas and even zip wires. Kite flying, photography and transient art, litter picking and picnics all featured in the open-air programmes.
In woodland and hill areas local experts came to the fore, such as YMCA's bushcraft leader, CAYAG's local 'Climate Literacy Trainer' and Logos' 'Do It Outdoors' owner. AYP has formed an affinity with a local 'den', as the Youth Manager declared:
"Even when we're allowed back inside, one of the positives of lockdown is we've been forced to appreciate what has always been on our doorstep."
14