A wellbeing farm designed to ‘benefit and give sanctuary to those in need’ is being proposed for development in Seend.
The farm, to be managed by Merry Moos Farm Project CIC, aims to raise 30% of the necessary funds to bring the project to life.
“We want to provide a variety of activities in an outdoor environment for older adults aged 60 to 85 plus and for those with physical disabilities and learning disabilities. We want the farm to support these people who might be suffering from poor wellbeing, social isolation and physical health problems. We also support social prescribing,” explained trustee Pip Langdown.
The project also seeks to collaborate with organisations that support ex-service personnel and employees experiencing wellbeing issues. Additionally, the farm plans to introduce a large animal sanctuary, enabling clients to interact with animals as part of their therapeutic experience.
“There is nothing more powerful than working with nature and animals,” said Pip. “We believe our CIC farm project will provide activities to benefit and give sanctuary to those in need.”
Seend has been identified as an ideal location for the farm, as it could have the ‘greatest impact’ in delivering services across the whole of Wiltshire.
Local organisations and authorities in Wiltshire have shown interest in the project.
“Wiltshire Community Foundation is eager to assist,” said Pip. “I’ve also spoken with Wiltshire’s adult social care team, who are very keen and inquired about how soon the farm could be operational for their adults with learning disabilities. Unfortunately, while the council supports the project, they do not have any available funding at this time.”
Pip added, “It has been well-documented that allowing people who are suffering from wellbeing issues to give even a pat or a hug [to an animal] will help that individual.”
Anyone interested in donating to the farm can contact merrymoosfarmproject@gmail.com.
Pictured: Pip’s pet pigs Molly and Polly