FIT AND FED PROGRAMME AT DEBDALE OUTDOOR CENTRE
Debdale Outdoor Centre successfully delivered the Fit and Fed programme over the Christmas Period. Joint funded by MCRactive and GLL, the centre hosted two enjoyable days of festivities for young people on Tuesday 22 and 29 December 2020 with the help of Centre Manager Martin Ware and his incredible team of volunteers.
A combined total of 40 participants took to the water across the two days for both a morning and afternoon session of sailing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting and windsurfing. Participants engaged in a range of activities to develop skill, coordination and teamwork whilst gaining the benefits of being physically active in the fresh air.
Following the morning sailing session, the young people and volunteers were treated to a nutritious hot meal kindly donated by the Miles Platting Church of the Apostles. Soups, stews and bolognaise were on offer along with vegetarian options followed by brownies and chocolate cake.
Another session of sailing activities followed in the afternoon, culminating with a visit from our very own Santa to round off the day with a Christmas gift in the form of a warm blanket, present and sweet treat. The young participants displayed enthusiasm in abundance with interest in further participation confirmed by attendance at the following weekend’s junior sailing club.
A combined total of 40 participants took to the water across the two days for both a morning and afternoon session of sailing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting and windsurfing. Participants engaged in a range of activities to develop skill, coordination and teamwork whilst gaining the benefits of being physically active in the fresh air.
Following the morning sailing session, the young people and volunteers were treated to a nutritious hot meal kindly donated by the Miles Platting Church of the Apostles. Soups, stews and bolognaise were on offer along with vegetarian options followed by brownies and chocolate cake.
Another session of sailing activities followed in the afternoon, culminating with a visit from our very own Santa to round off the day with a Christmas gift in the form of a warm blanket, present and sweet treat. The young participants displayed enthusiasm in abundance with interest in further participation confirmed by attendance at the following weekend’s junior sailing club.
“It was lots of fun, I didn’t even mind the cold because I enjoyed being on the water” - Participant
“So proud, Strawberie has really enjoyed the session and already asked to come back on Saturday, she has also made a friend who has looked after her so well” - Parent
It was also important to hear feedback from our volunteers who commented “I have been volunteering here for 7-8 off the back of my experience with the junior club. Volunteering has helped me grow as a person and mature with the responsibilities I have been given. I am dyslexic, dyspraxic and autistic, so life can be challenging for me and my role at Debdale has helped me learn strategies to manage this”. Another said “It’s been wonderful to be able to provide the children with such a memorable Christmas experience and bringing joy to their faces with food and presents”.
An incredible effort by Martin and his army of volunteers in delivering this scheme, given the current circumstances. The programme was a welcomed relief to families which is demonstrated in such positive feedback, and again demonstrates what can still achieve during the most difficult times. For more information, visit better.org.uk/debdale
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