Park Life.
It's been recently reported that Blairvadach outdoor centre - one of the largest
of its type in Scotland - will be closing in less than four months as part of a raft of savings in Glasgow council's 2020-21 budget.
In response to this, Glasgow City Council has commented that it is committed to exploring "new, innovative and alternative" ways to offer outdoor learning that "complements" a pupil's education.
So if it's anything like their stunning ASN transport provision it'll consist of staff turning up when they feel like it - or not at all - and having the day of with a hangover after Old Firm matches whilst constantly bitching about their pay.
And all this whilst the folk in the office organizing it cry on the phone at you and tell you how difficult their job is.
But why is it so important? I hear you cry.
Well in my past life as an arts/play development type (yes I am allowed to work with children, scary as that may seem) I've seen the positive effects of this particular centre - and outdoor provision in general - can have on the groups attending.
From run of the mill Com-Ed outings to specialist provision for SEN and young carers, the experiences can become a central part of the groups life.
It's completely messy, always fun, totally tiring and - whether you're a kid or a worker - is probably one of the best experiences you can ever have, I have nothing but happy memories of every group I've ever attended Blairvadach with.
That's not all tho' 'cause as a parent I've also gotten to see my podlings experience the centre too and whilst the twin engines of destruction absolutely adored it, it was Cassidy that it had the most profound effect on.
As you probably all know - or can tell from my random ramblings - Cassman has very limited spoken language, only using about 100 words, has incredibly complex needs, no sense of danger and most of the time requires one - on -one supervision.
In layman's terms he's a rascal.
A absolutely adorable rascal but a rascal never the less.
Since going to Blairvadach two years ago he's discovered two new words.
"Blairvadach" and "adventure".
He also painted a picture of his time there.
Now if that's the effect it had on Cass, just imagine the positive impact on all the other kids who've attended over the last 40 years.
Disability provision in Glasgow is abysmal enough without taking away one of the few things that actually makes a difference, if you really care you can find the money else.
Failing that you can strip the marble from the City Chambers, I reckon that'd make a few quid on Ebay.
And they say we don't have empathy.
If you care at all there's a Public Protest to #SaveBlairvadach on Saturday 14th March, 11am, City Chambers, George Square.
Come along and bring your banners.
For more information follow the above hashtag on 'the Twitter' plus you can also read more about it here and - if you're so inclined - listen to me excitedly ramble about Blairvadach and the importance of (Autistic) provision on BBC Scotland's Drive Time (1hr55mins until 2hr00).
In response to this, Glasgow City Council has commented that it is committed to exploring "new, innovative and alternative" ways to offer outdoor learning that "complements" a pupil's education.
So if it's anything like their stunning ASN transport provision it'll consist of staff turning up when they feel like it - or not at all - and having the day of with a hangover after Old Firm matches whilst constantly bitching about their pay.
And all this whilst the folk in the office organizing it cry on the phone at you and tell you how difficult their job is.
Well in my past life as an arts/play development type (yes I am allowed to work with children, scary as that may seem) I've seen the positive effects of this particular centre - and outdoor provision in general - can have on the groups attending.
From run of the mill Com-Ed outings to specialist provision for SEN and young carers, the experiences can become a central part of the groups life.
It's completely messy, always fun, totally tiring and - whether you're a kid or a worker - is probably one of the best experiences you can ever have, I have nothing but happy memories of every group I've ever attended Blairvadach with.
 |
| Cassidy up a tree.... |
That's not all tho' 'cause as a parent I've also gotten to see my podlings experience the centre too and whilst the twin engines of destruction absolutely adored it, it was Cassidy that it had the most profound effect on.
As you probably all know - or can tell from my random ramblings - Cassman has very limited spoken language, only using about 100 words, has incredibly complex needs, no sense of danger and most of the time requires one - on -one supervision.
In layman's terms he's a rascal.
A absolutely adorable rascal but a rascal never the less.
Since going to Blairvadach two years ago he's discovered two new words.
"Blairvadach" and "adventure".
He also painted a picture of his time there.
Now if that's the effect it had on Cass, just imagine the positive impact on all the other kids who've attended over the last 40 years.
Disability provision in Glasgow is abysmal enough without taking away one of the few things that actually makes a difference, if you really care you can find the money else.
Failing that you can strip the marble from the City Chambers, I reckon that'd make a few quid on Ebay.
And they say we don't have empathy.
If you care at all there's a Public Protest to #SaveBlairvadach on Saturday 14th March, 11am, City Chambers, George Square.
Come along and bring your banners.
For more information follow the above hashtag on 'the Twitter' plus you can also read more about it here and - if you're so inclined - listen to me excitedly ramble about Blairvadach and the importance of (Autistic) provision on BBC Scotland's Drive Time (1hr55mins until 2hr00).
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