About the Project

Papworth Trust’s OWL day service in Basildon supports 53 disabled adults who all have a learning disability, some with the addition of a physical disability and / or a mental health condition. Customer’s disabilities vary from mild to complex with examples including; Global Developmental Delay, Downs Syndrome, Challenging Behaviours, Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and Paraplegia. The service provides a variety of activities that work towards a number of difference outcomes which include: social inclusion, practical skills, recreation, independent living skills, communication, confidence, health and well-being.

The customers of OWL Basildon have a particular interest in the environment and natural world.  In order for OWL Basildon to provide activities within this field additional space is required.  Purchasing and building a fully accessible learning facility in the garden at OWL Basildon will allow us to expand our activities to encompass the natural environment; encouraging customers to interact in an environment that is conducive to the activities that they will be undertaking.

Activities and learning will include:

• Using the natural environment to aid sensory development feeling different soils, trees and plants; identifying smells in a forest, seeing and identifying differences in seasons.
• Learning about the environment they are working in – what trees and plants are growing? How can I help them grow?
• Learning about creature and their habitats from around the world on the land, in the sea and air - we will explore their activities and habits
• Exploring and learning about the impact of plastics and recycling opportunities - undertaking practical exercises to understand how our everyday habits can positively influence the world in which we live.

The Difference

The outdoor classroom will provide the opportunity for customers to develop an understanding of the natural world and the impact that our everyday lives has on our immediate surroundings.
The educational, practical and creative series of modules will enable customers to develop social and communication skills, increased self-esteem and confidence, improved knowledge of current environmental matters and improved team work.

The Cost

The cost for providing this facility is £25,000