MBACT Canalside Volunteer and Learning Hub
MBACT is pleased to announce that we have received seed funding from the Torfaen Community Resilience Grant Scheme to set up a Canalside Volunteer and Learning Hub for canal related activities.
We are working towards being an accredited centre offering nationally recognised courses in a variety of health and safety, environmental and heritage areas enabling volunteers with MBACT and other organisations to gain qualifications in these areas and improving the quality and effectiveness of the work being carried out.
Subjects will include working safely near water, environmental considerations of working in the outdoors, safely using tools, protecting our heritage, the use of lime mortar in canal restoration, first aid and other subjects. These will add to the boating qualifications we are currently able to offer as a centre of training accredited by National Community Boats Association.
If a course already exists we are able to use it, but if not we will work towards developing it.
The initial funding is to develop the learning hub at the canal locks at Ty Coch in south Cwmbran, to make the location fully accessible and secure, with up to date IT connectivity and welfare facilities. It will also cover costs for assessors and setting up the structures to satisfy the accrediting organisation.
The timescale is that courses will begin in early 2024.
If organisations or individuals wish to discuss these learning opportunities please contact Laura or Jodie at the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre or email us on learninghub@mbact.org.uk