The Mersey Basin Trust has worked in partnership with the Trafford Youth Offending Team since March 2003, using river and canal clean-ups as a method of reparation for the young offenders. A classic task involves the clearance of as much litter as possible both along the banks and in the stream itself. Council wardens then help by carting debris away in skips and bins.
Recently tasks have involved a short river dipping session as well: a chance for the teenagers to see what actually lives in the water and many of them are pleasantly surprised to find anything at all! Helping these young people to experience and enjoy their water courses while at the same time showing them what impact litter and pollution has on a river and its ecosystem can foster understanding, compassion and ultimately respect for the environment.
Kim Skinner is a Reparation Officer for the Trafford YOT; her work involves the organisation of various reparation schemes for young people aged 10-17 who are on court orders to the YOT. The Mersey Basin Trust helps people to understand, protect, enhance and enjoy their watercourses and surrounding land, to create a sustainable environment for the benefit of everyone.
Kim Skinner, Trafford YOT (0161 911 8217)
Mersey Basin Trust (0161 620 8262, [email protected])
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