Risc

Development Education is a process, which aims to:

· enable people to understand links between their lives and those of people throughout the world.

· increase awareness of the economic, social, political and environmental forces, which shape all our lives, creating poverty, inequality and oppression.

· develop the skills, attitudes and values which enable people to bring about change and take control of their own lives; and to work towards a more just world, where power and resources are more equally shared.

To achieve these aims we work with schools, community groups and the general public in the Thames Valley area to raise the profile of international issues and promote action for sustainable development. We promote positive models of community action and development from around the world that prove inspirational to local community activists.

Our aims are also achieved by the services we offer detailed below.

Manage a community building close to the town centre comprising of office space for 8 voluntary sector organisations and conference/ meeting space for community groups. Rooms are let 7 days a week to community groups at affordable prices, 3 out of 4 are wheelchair accessible.

Provision of information and advice to the public 6 days a week throughout the year on issues and concerns affecting communities locally and internationally.

Organise a programme of events and exhibitions which provide a platform for speakers from the ‘south’ on issues that are neglected or marginalised.

Produce Development Education resources, such as teaching packs, AV aids and exhibitions, for use by schools and/ or youth and community groups.

Maintain a data base of Development Education resources.

Maintain and expand our website www.risc.org.uk

Publish 1/2 termly e-newsletter to support local schools teachers network.

Run a loans service for teachers, schools, nurseries and youth and community workers (teaching packs, videos and artefacts)

Maintain a sustainable, educational ‘roof garden’ open for group visits by appointment. In this special garden, the emphasis is on edible, medicinal and practically useful plants from around the World, grown in a sustainable way. It provides an ideal educational tool for local people, adults and children alike.

Provide experienced facilitators for schools, organisations and community groups. Our education team includes both a primary and secondary specialist.

Promote campaigns on local and international issues.

Stock a wide range of fairly traded and environmentally friendly products for sale in our World Shop

Run the Global Cafe at RISC.

Support and development of other community groups within the town, with equipment, publicity, advice and information. For example, through support of Reading International Forum and it’s activities, including the One World Tent/Stage at WOMAD and the annual Reading International Festival.

Provide a wide range of training and work experience opportunities for volunteers, particularly targeted at unemployed people young offenders and lone parents.