Whilst the summer months see a break to weekly Scout meetings, the summer camp isn’t the only work that takes place during this time. We have been busy improving the outside space around our Scout Den. Thanks to a small grant and further investment from the Scout Group, we have worked to create a useable outdoor space for our young people. The benefits of this have been three-fold: the exterior image of the building is now much more inviting, the youth members have the opportunity to learn about plants and wildlife, and we have greatly improved the biodiversity in our area with pollinator-friendly plants.
We now have plants and flowers in planters, pots and hanging baskets in abundance. We have specifically selected a range of plants which will provide year-round interest, whilst also focusing on native species.
I am also very grateful to one of our parents, who donated four native saplings, which will we grow and maintain in pots to teach about species native to Ireland.
In addition, we have been brick-laying and shovelling 12 tonnes of soil (!) to create a second green space at the Scout Den. Whilst not complete yet, this space will allow for outdoor games as well as outside flag break when the top garden is complete.
These improvements, coupled with our new roof, new 18 metre mural, and our blue and white bunting (the newest addition!) really lift the Scout Den up and personify the great youth work that happens within (and out of) the four walls of the building.
Maybe you’ll see the spectacles the next time you’re driving on Home Avenue, or maybe you’ll get the opportunity to call in and visit during our next 80 Year celebration in October 2025.