Tea and Toast goers at Morley Court experienced a unique morning as they delved into the ocean's depths with the Ocean Conservation Trust's virtual reality (VR) experience.
Louise and Safa, Ocean Discovery Rangers from the Ocean Conservation Trust led the event, which featured an informative and interactive session. Participants enjoyed a VR tour across various aquatic environments and had the opportunity to examine artefacts such as turtle shells, coral, starfish, and a menacing shark jaw.
Louise, Ocean Discovery Ranger at Ocean Conservation Trust, explained the focus of these sessions:
"The aim is to connect people to the ocean, immerse them in the beauty of the water, and demonstrate how amazing the ocean is whilst highlighting the issues it now faces."
"The event has been delightful, as it’s been wonderful to see how engaged people are, and it’s amazing to be able to answer so many questions.”
The residents' first trip into the ocean featured footage filmed at the National Marine Aquarium shark tank, followed by a deep dive in Plymouth Sound. To conclude the experience, residents explored oceans around the world and immersed themselves in a vibrant variety of exotic waters.
Joe Loughran, Housing Officer at Plymouth Community Homes commented:
"This project allows us to showcase the potential of digital technology and bring together people who may not have had the opportunity or facilities to experience this before.
"It was an amazing experience for residents; I even had to give it a try myself"
One resident was heard saying:
"I enjoyed that so much! It feels like you’re really there under the ocean-how brilliant!"
