During the last two years Crossing Park Boundaries has supported 48 visits to the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park – appealing to a wide diversity of groups including older people, disabled groups, BME (black, minority ethnic) mental health groups, learning disability groups, women’s aid and disadvantaged youngsters.
Initially set up as a four year partnership project between the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority and the Countryside Council for Wales the project aims to support representatives and members of socially excluded groups to visit to the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and enjoy group appropriate activities.
The project is co-ordinated by Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority – Ceri Bevan, Sustainable Communities Officer and Huw Price, Activities Leader – with funding support available through to September 2010. Speaking about the project, Ceri said: “The idea behind the visits is to develop innovative ways of breaking down any actual or perceived barriers there might be regarding access or enjoying activities within the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Many of the groups we have contacted had initial reservations about being able to take part in ‘activities’ as they often assume it would involve scaling the heights of Pen Y Fan or white water canoeing down the river Usk.
“Although many groups originate from urban areas outside of the National Park boundary we have also encouraged and assisted local groups to enjoy what we hope will become part of a regular activity programme. For us, it’s all about giving these groups a positive experience in the National Park.”
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Pictures: Copyright of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority
The Westminster Group – The Westminster ‘Health Matters’ Group enjoying a day out with BBNPA Education Officer, Ron Layton at the waterfalls, near Pontneddfechan.
Rhondda 50+ Group – BBNPA Activities Leader, Huw Price with Members of the Rhondda 50+ Forum on Mynydd Illtyd, near the National Park Visitor Centre, Libanus.