UK Youth announces job cuts at Avon Tyrrell
Fiona Simpson
Wednesday, October 21, 2020
UK Youth has announced job cuts at its Avon Tyrrell activity centre due to the “significant strain” on the outdoor learning sector caused by Covid-19.
The 14 proposed redundancies are “necessary” to avoid the permanent closure of the 135-year-old site, UK Youth said.
Workforce numbers at the popular centre in Christchurch, Dorset, are set to reduce from 39 to 25, the charity added.
Avon Tyrrell provided engagement days for more than 71,000 young people last year, supporting development in self-discovery, confidence, resilience and helping them to unlock their potential.
The site remains open and continues to provide a Covid-19-secure outdoor space for young people to visit and enjoy the facilities, UK Youth said.
Ndidi Okezie, chief executive of UK Youth, said: “Over the past six months our staff at Avon Tyrrell have been working incredibly hard to continue to deliver outdoor learning, despite the unbelievably difficult challenges in income that Covid-19 has brought.
“This is a very sad day in the history of this charity. I have seen first-hand how much the opportunity to experience outdoor learning changes a young person. It is particularly painful given the unwavering dedication of our staff throughout this pandemic.
“I want to thank staff for their commitment and professionalism throughout this process.”
The coronavirus pandemic has led to series of outdoor programmes, including the National Citizen Service's flagship residential programme, being cancelled throughout 2020.
Last week, more than 30 youth and environmental groups called on MPs to investigate the "vital" health and education benefits of outdoor learning for children in disadvantaged areas.
