Loch Ken Trust Secures Funding from Drax Foundation for Water Safety Sessions
Loch Ken Trust, a prominent organisation in Galloway, has recently received funding from the Drax Foundation to support their Youth Water Safety Awareness Programme. The initiative aims to provide local schools with water safety sessions and enhance water patrols by the ranger service around Loch Ken. The Trust’s efforts focus on promoting safe practices and environmental mindfulness among Loch Ken users.
Leanne Pumpr, the head ranger of Loch Ken Trust, expressed gratitude for the funding provided by the Drax Foundation. She highlighted the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding the local environment and facilitating water safety sessions. Pumpr emphasised the alarming statistic that an average of 96 people succumb to water-related fatalities in Scotland each year, underscoring the critical need to educate young individuals on responsible water activities.
Ian Kinnaird, the FlexGen Assets Director at Drax, stressed the significance of ensuring young people can enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty safely. By supporting water safety programmes in communities near hydro-electric assets, Drax aims to equip youth with essential skills to navigate water activities securely. The idyllic landscapes of lochs and coastlines in Scotland create an ideal backdrop for water recreation, making safety education a top priority for both Drax and Loch Ken Trust.
Additionally, Embers Aquatics, a charitable organisation collaborating with primary schools in Scotland, has been granted £5,000 by the Drax Foundation. This funding will aid in conducting water safety workshops in Galloway, Argyll and Bute, and Lanarkshire, benefiting approximately 7,500 pupils through 375 workshops. The project not only reinforces water safety but also promotes awareness and preparedness among the younger generation.
Moreover, local schools in Galloway actively participated in a water safety awareness campaign, with students tasked to design posters raising awareness on the topic. Winning entries were exhibited by Loch Ken, and the schools received a £500 grant for STEM resources. The competition champions were Tamzin Scott from Crossmichael Primary School (P2-4) and Abbie Dickie from Springholm Primary School (P5-7).
In conclusion, the collaboration between Loch Ken Trust, Drax Foundation, and Embers Aquatics underscores the collective commitment to fostering a culture of safety and environmental stewardship among Scotland’s youth. By investing in water safety education and community engagement, these organisations are working towards a future where water-related activities can be enjoyed responsibly and sustainably.