Anchor House in Larne helping to create a cleaner, greener community
Service users and staff at Anchor House in Larne are celebrating the success of an innovative recycling project, which aims to create a cleaner, greener community while promoting learning, inclusion and environmental responsibility.
The project began after discussions between staff and service users about the importance of reducing waste and improving recycling practices.
Service users enthusiastically embraced the challenge and helped shape a recycling initiative that continues to go from strength to strength.
Easy-read resources have been developed to help service users correctly identify recycling bins and understand what materials belong in each one. The group has also taken part in recycling-themed quizzes, bingo games and educational activities, and have been busy turning recyclable items into garden decorations and crafts.
The initiative has now extended into the wider community through a partnership with Live Here Love Here. As part of this, the team has registered with the Adopt a Spot scheme, taking responsibility for helping to keep their local community park clean and tidy through regular litter-picking activities.
Service users were recognised for their efforts by the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Alderman Tom Gordon, who presented them with a special Environmental Stewardship Award during a visit to the Mayor’s Parlour.
Kellie Ritchie, Learning Disability Team Manager, said: "We are incredibly proud of what our service users and staff have achieved through this project. What started as a discussion about recycling has grown into something that is making a real difference both within Anchor House and in the wider community.
“A special mention goes to our Daycare Worker Philippa McNeilly for her enthusiasm, creativity and commitment.
“Under her guidance, our service users have embraced learning about recycling, taken ownership of keeping their local area clean and developed skills that will benefit them both now and in the future.
"The project has demonstrated that everyone can play a part in protecting the environment. It has increased confidence, encouraged teamwork and created a real sense of pride and achievement among those involved."
Meanwhile, staff have enrolled on sustainability training programmes and hope to support service users in gaining recognised qualifications.
There are also plans to produce compost for use in vegetable-growing projects while continuing to promote recycling as much as possible both within the service and at home.