In 2005, Move On East successfully applied to the Broads Authority Sustainable Development Fund* (weblink) to develop a new project aimed at raising awareness of the Norfolk Broads and the sustainability of these conservation sites. The Project offers participants the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills through practical activities in conservation and woodwork. The ‘Broaden Your Horizon’ Project will run 7 programmes over a two-year period, concluding mid-2007.

The Project brings together new partnerships, enabling Move On East to work with the Broads Authority, whereby individuals spend a day working on designated sites of special interest and with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) and Adult Education Service (web link) who will run a variety of accredited courses. Local Trusts will benefit from small objects made during the woodwork activities, which form part of the programme. The project will actively promote the wide range of volunteering opportunities in conservation available across the county and the benefits of the volunteer role.

Centred as we are at the edge of the Broads and close to the Brecks in one direction and the Sea in the other, this scheme was designed to allow learners/clients to become involved in the conservation of the special characteristics of these locations. Throughout the length of the course, clients are able to improve their skills in the use of hand tools, along with possibly gaining certificates in literacy and numeracy and in becoming fully familiar with organizations that will allow them to become volunteers involved in the retention of these areas.

To become involved in the project, individuals must be:

1. - subject to Unpaid Work Orders of 60 hours+
2. - aged 17 to 24 years
3. - keen to develop reading, number and communication skills and work towards an
     Adult Literacy/Numeracy Award (Skills For Life)
4. - interested to learn more about the conservation of the Norfolk Broads, spending a   day undertaking conservation work (web link)
5. - help local bird and wildlife Trusts by making bird, bat and owl boxes which will be   taken out to designated sites
6. - improving their skills by working towards qualifications in Basic Health & Safety or   COSSH/Manual Handling (Adult Education) and conservation (BTCV). Depending   on the time of year, conservation courses offered include Introduction to   Grassland, Heathland, Pond or Wood Management; Tree Felling; Hedgerow   Planting; Post & Wire Fencing; Shrub clearance with hand tools.

If you would like more information on this project, please telephone 01603 763555 or click here for more information. Alternatively, speak to your Case Manager.

* The Broads Authority Sustainable Development Fund reflects DEFRA’s objectives of sustainable development, partnership and social inclusion.