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Children from Chernobyl

Children from Chernobyl Visit LOPC

Saturday 17th September 2011 saw a group of 10 young people from Chernobyl who were treated to an activity afternoon by PaddlePlus and the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre. They came from social situations where it is difficult to get the care and attention they require. They arrived undernourished and shabby and stayed with Host Families for a month. It is believed that by being shown some love and attention, being well fed and experiencing a good life, they return to Belarus with hope and the possibility of extending their lives by some 5 years.

This year there were 10 young people plus their host families. They came to experience an afternoon of water activities and enjoy a bbq.

Firstly was a trip on the Bellboat to Birstall and back. This was certainly enjoyed by the Host Families with the Chernobyl children sitting very quiet.

Secondly came a Kayak session. The children have very little knowledge of English language so with a visual demonstration from Paul Taylor as to how to get into and out of a kayak and how to call “Help” the children laughed and began to relax and enjoy themselves chatting together in their own language. This session was a huge success with the Children trying various boats including a coracle. With a traditional ending to a kayak session the Children all took their turns to jump into the river.

After a warm shower it was bbq time. This was kindly provided by PaddlePlus and cooked by Louise Sheldon. Thoroughly enjoyed by all! The delight on the faces of the children when they were offered an ice cream said so much.

My thanks go to the volunteers from PaddlePlus (Likko, Pete M, Maz, Storm and Paul) that spent the afternoon on the water with the children coaching them and helping them to enjoy their visit. Also to PaddlePlus who paid for the bbq food and LOPC for allowing us to use the equipment and facilities.

It is hoped that another group of Children from Chernobyl will return to us again next year.

(If you would like further information on the Children of Chernobyl please visit their website www.focc.org.uk)

Cheryl Sheldon