Growing a New Generation of Environmental Champions
The Caring for Our World programme continues to make an impact, with a second group of Mainstay DRP clients recently completing Northern Ireland’s first climate action and sustainability programme designed specifically for people with a learning disability.
This cohort was joined by staff from Live Here Love Here, who helped develop the programme and shared their expertise and passion for protecting the environment. Together, participants explored practical ways to reduce waste, save energy and make more sustainable choices in their everyday lives.
While the programme teaches about climate change, its greatest impact can be seen in the everyday habits participants are adopting beyond the classroom. Across Mainstay, clients are switching off lights, recycling more carefully, thinking differently about energy use and encouraging others to do the same. Small actions are becoming lasting habits, demonstrating that everyone has a role to play in caring for our world.
Donna, who participated in the course, said
I didn’t realise there were so many small things I could do to help the environment like cleaning the beach, recycling and turning the tap off when you’re brushing your teeth. It makes me feel proud that I’m doing my bit.
John, Mainstay DRP’s Caring for our World Lead and Residential Manager, said:
It has been great to see our service users take part in the Caring for Our World programme. They have shown lots of knowledge, enthusiasm, and a real desire to make positive changes. This has made the course enjoyable and easy to run.
It is wonderful to have a programme that has been designed especially for our service users. I look forward to continuing to support our residents as they learn new skills, care for the environment, and make a positive difference in their communities.
In September, learners from both cohorts will come together at Queen’s University Belfast for a special graduation ceremony celebrating everything they have achieved. It promises to be a proud occasion, recognising not only what participants have learned but also the positive contribution they are already making in their homes, services and communities.
As the programme continues to grow, so too does the number of people showing that climate action is for everyone. By making environmental education accessible, Caring for Our World is helping people with learning disabilities build the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to make a lasting difference, one small action at a time.
A huge congratulations and thank you to everyone who took part in the second cohort: Patrick, Damien, Stephen, Marty, Katherine, Joanne, and Marie-Anne. We look forward to celebrating your achievements at graduation in September.
Want to learn more about the Caring for Our World programme? Visit the Live Here Love Here website to discover how it’s helping people with learning disabilities across Northern Ireland take positive action for the environment:
