The interest was huge, but the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath, in the form of an announcement in Spain on 12 March 2020 of the state of emergency and a full lockdown, interrupted the implementation of the project on the ground. However, long months of isolation have been well used: partners from Spain, with a view to future recruitment, have increased their social media presence. The development of coaching and mentoring, on the other hand, continued in online form.
It's been a very tough month. There have been many uncertainties regarding the further implementation of the project - admit partners from Spain.
In connection with the pandemic in partner countries, we have created well-developed safety procedures for all project participants. On July 7, expeditions resumed in Spain, with 209 participants recruited by 4 November and 20 expeditions organised. It is a great success after such a long break, which consisted of a huge logistical, personnel and recruitment effort. On November 4, 2020, two more expeditions were to take place. Unfortunately, as a result of the increase in Covid-19 cases, restrictions in the country have returned. During the next break in the field, partners from Spain sent more than 25,000 emails to potential participants. On social media, the participants' statements appeared. Thanks to these actions, another 400 people expressed their willingness to take part in future expeditions.
Los socios del proyecto en España admiten que, tras la reanudación de las expediciones en julio, ha aumentado el interés de los jóvenes en participar en FOLM. Ello se debe en gran parte a su necesidad de salir de casa, moverse y viajar y estar en contacto con la naturaleza.
Project partners in Spain admit that after the resumption of Outdoor Learning, interest in the FOLM project among the beneficiaries has increased. More than ever, young people had the need to leave home, move and travel. First of all, during isolation, they lacked contact with nature – FOLM opened up such a possibility to them. It can be said that the lockdown played in favor of the project.
As of today, a state of emergency is declared in Spain. Meetings of more than 6 people are not allowed. In addition, there is a curfew from 22:00 to 6:00. We hope that the situation in the country will soon improve, creating an opportunity to continue the activities and complete the objectives set by the FOLM project.