“I was shy at school; I need time to get comfortable. I have more skills now; the farm helps me with that. I do very hard work.” Rebecca
The Trust hosts a range of Green Care initiatives, but there’s no denying that Green Care and farming go hand in hand. We’re incredibly proud of our working social farms who offer practical skills, such as animal care and husbandry, but also increase positive well-being, by improving independence, self-esteem and a giving sense of belonging. But our social farms and our other Green Care initiatives, are not supported by local authorities. That’s where we need your support.
Where hard work pays off
Rebecca has been attending Larchfield for over 10 years. She plays a vital role within the social farm team, making sure the animals have plenty of healthy snacks and comfy hay beds. Rebecca’s meticulous attention to detail has been recognised by Eileen, the farm’s Co-production lead, giving Rebecca increased responsibilities.
“I’m not exaggerating when I say she does an amazing job. I've worked on professional farms before, and it's as good as anyone I’ve worked with. She just she does it perfectly.”
Eileen, Co-production lead
Pepsi, the Shetland pony, lives her best life at Larchfield, and that, in part, comes from Rebecca’s dedication to ensure Pepsi is well cared for and loved.
Rebecca can do this because of the trust that has been given to her to carry out such a big responsibility. Having that self-belief instilled in her, has helped Rebecca consider her long-term goals and aspirations. One day Rebecca would like to have her own farm and her own animals.
The pressures of modern life can be stressful for us all...
And, before joining the Trust Rebecca had struggled with mental health challenges and finding her purpose. Since Rebecca was welcomed into the Larchfield farm team, she has found her calling. She can truly be herself. Many of the people we support through our social farming have found confidence by being trusted with the welfare of our livestock, overseen by caring and nurturing Co-production teams, as well forming lifelong friendships and sanctuary away from the city grind.
These vital interventions are not supported by local authorities. Donations from our supporters goes towards the majority of our Green Care programme. Without this income, we can’t sustain these activities which is why we are asking you to ensure those now and, in the future, can carrying on benefitting from this valuable initiative for the next 70 years and beyond.
A gift from you today, of any amount, will help us to ensure our social farms can continue to provide our communities for the next 70 years and beyond.
Fancy a spot of Bean Bucket?
There’s nothing quite like playing outdoor games when the sun gets that little bit higher and that little bit warmer. Larchfield Community Farm like to unwind every Friday with a spot of 'Bean Bucket' We’ve created an instruction sheet so you can play 'Bean Bucket’ too!' Happy Bean Bucketing!
