Heritage Trips for Disadvantaged Young People

Photograph of a young person sitting in the cockpit of a plane. Someone is passing him a helmet.

A trip to the RAF Museum. Photo: Plasma of Hope

National Lottery Grants for Heritage – £3,000 to £10,000

Date awarded

27/05/2022

Location

St Matthew's

Local Authority

Walsall

Applicant

Plasma of Hope

Award Given

£9873

Young people with sickle cell disease and other genetic blood disorders and their families took part in social activities to experience local heritage, building confidence and connection.

The participants, who were also from ethnically diverse communities and on low incomes, normally struggle to reach heritage sites because of cost and the impact of the young people's medical conditions.

Throughout 2022, community group Plasma of Hope engaged 30 young people in trips to local heritage sites in Walsall, one of our Areas of Focus. These included the RAF Museum Midlands, Victorian Sandwell Valley Park, Black Country Living Museum, Walsall Art Gallery and Walsall Leather Museum.

Photograph of a family feeding a reindeer

Activities included learning about the region’s industrial landscape, exploring nature, and having a go at seasonal crafts. They provided participants with an opportunity for self-discovery and togetherness.

Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we were able to give the young people an opportunity to experience local heritage and history.

Marie-Claire Kofi, Chief Executive Officer, Plasma of Hope

Photograph of a group visiting the RAF Museum

Having access to these activities at local heritage sites aimed to improve under-served families’ skills, knowledge, confidence, and relationships. For example, many of the young people have made new friends while seeing history brought to life through fascinating equipment and craft activities.

Marie-Claire Kofi, Chief Executive Officer at Plasma of Hope said: ‘This has also been a great opportunity for the kids and their parents and carers to connect with others in similar situations, sharing information and experiences. Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we were able to give the young people an opportunity to experience local heritage and history.’