Playing a small part for COP26, as part of a joint multi-generational project, Knightswood Connects facilitated the planting of trees in Knightswood in partnership with Friends of Knightswood Park. Seniors living within the community, pupils from Knightswood Secondary and Blairdardie Primary Schools, various local organisations and groups all came together in October to plant a variety of saplings such as Silver Birch, Hazel, Rowan and more.

Knightswood Connects is a project set up for Knightswood residents, over 50 years old, to connect them with local support services and share information with the aim of tackling loneliness and isolation, encouraging self-management of age-related health concerns and promoting health and wellbeing. The project is funded by Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) and managed by Wheatley Care.

Ann Harvey, Community Engagement Coordinator with Knightswood Connects, said: "It was wonderful to see so many different age groups from different parts of the community coming together for a common purpose. The days were full of fun and laughter despite some miserable weather. We’re so pleased with the outcome and thank every individual for their enthusiasm during the week.”

The tree planting and a COVID-19 commemorative memorial bench, to be put in place later in the year, were funded thanks to a Local Area Committee Grant. 

May Simpson, Community Engagement and Development Officer within our HSCP, said: “Knightswood Connect brings people of all ages together to create a more supportive, caring and connected community, tackling isolation and promoting activities which improve health and wellbeing.”

You can watch a video of the Tree Planting at 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rf85BgJ1ec&t=3s

More information is on Knightswood Connects Facebook page or from 
Ann.Harvey@wheatley-care.com