All Things Good And Nice Community Interest Company

During lockdowns a community formed who were taking care of the River Freshney and taking pride intheir local area. River cleans, litter picks and community social activities took place where restrictionsallowed. The community formed their own CIC and are now looking to continue their activities now thatrestrictions have been lifted.This project will take the communities efforts further to other areas of the river and engage at least 50people a year in caring for their environment. This will include regular work days where volunteers comeand help litter pick, clear the River Banks and keep natural habitats clear. Volunteers will be rewardedwith sights of otters, a family of swans and kingfishers. Volunteers will also be treated to educationaltalks and workshops to ensure the future generations understand the importance of caring for theenvironment. Volunteers will also be able to take up informal training in River Care, health and safety andmanagement of the environment.The community who developed this project include children, young people, people who were furloughed,people with mobility issues and families. They developed the project to give them something meaningfulto do during lockdowns however the benefits have continued to encourage people to keep it up. Peoplehave reported their mental health is much better, they feel less isolated and lonely and now know theirneighbours. Community members have also reported their improved knowledge of the local flora andfauna, the river bank creatures and natural habitats for local species. The project will start as soon aspossible and last for at least 10 months.The community will ensure people participating in the activities provide feedback and this can informfuture projects and how the community can work better to provide solutions to community problems