So it's day three in Ukraine on what has so far been a very interesting study visit. It's quite interesting to see the similarities between this community of Antratsit and our community of Ashington. I half expected this to be unlike any other place I've ever been, and in some ways it is, but there are still a lot of things we have in common. On the first day, we talked with the local YMCA representatives about the work that they are doing with the children and the struggles they face, and there are a lot of comparisons we can make with Ashington. For example, a lot of the children who come to the YMCA tend to leave once they have completed their education, and rarely return to the town. As a result of this the population is declining, which is a very similar situation to Ashington. The YMCA in Antratcit is working with the school to make links with e children earlier so that they always have young peopl to train to become future leaders, which is perhaps something we can take back with us to try at home.
So far I am having a great trip, learning new things every day. I'll keep blogging about any other observations I make overthe next few days.
Thanks Rachel for an interesting insight. It is great to hear your comments.
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