Conservation is the focus for the visit next week of eight young people from France aged 16 to 25 to the Plymouth Foyer. They will mix with residents at the Plymouth Foyer who are of the same age group and from similar backgrounds.
Plymouth Foyer and Rennes PA Cleunay both provide accommodation with opportunities for young people to gain training for work and basic life skills. This supported housing helps young people to realise their full potential and gain independent living.
Dawn Bradley, Plymouth Foyer Training and Employment Advisor says, “We are hoping that the young French people coming over will get much enjoyment and understanding of our culture during their visit. The foyer is very keen and committed to doing what we can to save the environment and works closely on an educational programme with the Eden Project.”
A number of activities are planned relating to caring for the environment and improving sustainability. For example, the young people from Rennes and Plymouth will be involved in the conservation work being undertaken at the monkey sanctuary in Looe, visiting the Eden project as well as working on upgrading the communal gardens in the foyer itself.
This is the second part of the exchange trip as in April eight residents from Plymouth Foyer went to France to its counterpart in Rennes.
“We had a great time in France and the young people we took learnt so much about the different lifestyles and culture of young people in another country. The residents worked on agricultural land and learnt about how France is tackling the environment and sustainability,” said Dawn Bradley.
The residents stayed in a youth hostel and were accompanied by three members of staff. “It was fantastic. Having the opportunity to visit France is something I really didn’t expect when I became a foyer resident. I’m so grateful for this unique experience, it was a complete one-off!” said Scott Perry.
The British Council has provided substantial funding towards the French exchange.
