‘Furbochs’ encourage people to explore nature on Gigha
A family of friendly ‘Furbochs’ is encouraging people to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature on Gigha.
The furry creatures are helping the organisers of the Our Gigha and Me (OGAM) wellbeing project by travelling round the island in their own little shepherd’s hut, full of fun and nature-based activities for the young and notso-young to enjoy.
There was great excitement at Gigha Village Hall on Saturday March 26, when the Furbochs – which feature in their own storybook – popped in for a visit before heading out on their adventures.
The OGAM project is funded by the Wellcome Trust, through the British Science Association’s Ideas Fund, which enables communities to develop and try out ideas that address problems related to poor mental health.
This allows researchers and communities to work together to explore ways of improving mental wellbeing.
‘On Gigha, we are researching whether community-led nature interventions, including the Furboch house and its activities, as well as The Gigha Furboch storybook and an outdoor shelter for young people, can help to improve the wellbeing of children and families,’ said an OGAM spokesperson.
‘Covid has been difficult for many of us, but we know that getting outdoors can really help with our physical and mental health.
‘The OGAM project was designed to help make getting outdoors a bit different, fun and a little quirky, whilst making the most of what our beautiful island has to offer us!
‘The Furbochs have been more than happy to help us and have offered up their shepherd’s hut to be used by whoever comes to visit.
‘Please use anything or everything in there and look after it the best you can for others to enjoy. We would love to know what thoughts you have about our project and there is a feedback logbook in the Furboch house, which we would appreciate you completing after a visit.
‘We know that sometimes things can get lost or broken and if you notice anything, or have any other comments or suggestions, please add a note in the section at the back of the logbook to enable us to make sure things are the best they can be.’
Gigha children are helping with the research but anyone is welcome to visit the Furbochs – there is a map outside the village shop which offers a clue on where to look for them.