New Directions has been shortlisted as one of three charities to receive a cash award from Tesco Bags of Help initiative. Monies awarded to New Directions will go toward an interactive sensory garden for disabled people living in the charity’s Richmond Court supported living flats. Tesco teamed up with Groundwork to launch its community funding scheme, which sees grants of £4,000, £2,000 and £1,000 – all raised from the 5p bag levy – being awarded to local community projects.
Bags of Help offers community groups and projects across the UK a share of revenue from the 5p charge levied on single-use carrier bags. The public will now vote in store during May and June on who should receive the £4,000, £2,000 and £1,000 awards. For more information www.tesco.com/bagsofhelp
The sensory garden at Richmond Court supported living flats will be an outdoor communal space with features and materials to stimulate the senses of sight, smell, touch, sound and taste. It will offer people with disabilities and sensory impairments the opportunity to take part in sensory rich activities such as gardening in a user-friendly environment with full access for physically disabled people. Plans for the sensory garden include the practical use of raised beds for flowers, herbs and vegetables, a water feature, wind and wall chimes, interactive materials, mosaics and wall art.