CEIS Ayrshire launched its Coastal Ranger Programme in January 2015 in association with partners, North Ayrshire Council (Streetscene), Eglinton Country Park, The Ayrshire Community Trust (TACT) and the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO).

The programme was developed to protect and enhance the natural environment of Ayrshire; and encourage local groups, organisations and individuals to work together to conserve biodiversity.

The programme, designed with SCVO has provided 5 young ex-offenders, who have faced barriers reintegrating into society and the employment market, with an opportunity to access supervised training and work experience while making a positive contribution to the local community.

Since the programme commenced, along the Western Gailes shoreline, there has been a significant reduction in ‘fly tipping’. The project has also reported the removal and recycling of 118lbs of waste from coastal pathways and 618lbs from the beach and have experienced huge interest in the project from local communities, businesses and media.

One local primary teacher, whose class participated in the programme alongside our rangers, commented:
“This is an excellent activity for local children and contributed greatly to our wildlife & habitat topic focusing on beach and sealife. The activity was well planned, focused and pitched at the right level for 8-9 year olds. Can we have the same again next year?”

For further information on our employability service, visit www.ceisayrshire.co.uk

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