A project which provides support for people with learning disabilities by using birds of prey has been praised by a local MP.

Wirral West MP Margaret Greenwood visited people who benefit from the Royden Park Project, who is working in partnership with Hack Back, an organisation who help people with learning disabilities benefit from education, therapy and training with birds of prey. 

Ms Greenwood also met Hack Back founder Anita Morris and owl Murray.

Qualified psychologist, behavioural coach and therapist Anita has used birds of prey in leadership and management development programmes for many years.

Ms Greenwood said: “It was wonderful to see how much everyone enjoyed meeting Murray and the other two owls at the event, Mango and Axel.

“Anita made sure that everyone who wanted to had the chance to hold one of the owls.

“Seeing these beautiful birds fly overhead at close quarters was really exhilarating and it was clear that everyone got a great deal out of spending time with them.

“Interacting with Murray, Mango and Axel was clearly a positive experience, helping people to develop self-confidence and communication skills.

“The Royden Park Project and Hack Back are making a real difference to people with learning disabilities.”

The Royden Park Project is run by Wirral Evolutions and provides opportunities for disabled people to gain training in horticulture, conservation and woodwork in a supportive environment.

It works in conjunction with ‘Hack Back’ to provide interactive therapy through falconry experiences and training.

Anita said: “I have been working with Royden Park Project for nearly four years and the whole experience has had an impact on everyone involved including me and the Royden Park staff.

"It was wonderful of Margaret to come along and learn about the work we do.”

Anita also recently published a book called Murray’s Wings which has been designed to be read with children to stimulate discussion about personal and private safety.

Anita added: “We have been trialling the book in local schools with great results.

"An autistic boy in one school recently said to his teacher: ‘The book isn’t just about Murray, Miss, it’s also about us and learning to keep us safe’, so I think the message is being clearly understood.”

Hack Back is currently looking for corporate sponsorship to help deliver more sessions to hospices such as Claire House.

To find out more about Hack Back visit http://www.hack-back.org.uk/ 

For more information about The Royden Park Project visit http://www.wirralevolutions.org/