A LETTERKENNY farmer will open his land to offer social farming opportunities to those in need of support to improve their health and well-being.
Patrick Harley, of Harley Brothers Farm, will host an Open Day on his farm on Friday, May 5, from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
Patrick is one of 125 farmers all over Ireland who offer social farming experiences to people who are socially, physically, mentally or intellectually disadvantaged, giving them the opportunity to spend time on a family farm in a healthy, supportive and inclusive environment.
These farms are part of the Social Farming Ireland Network, and are trained and supported in all counties by the team based in Leitrim Development Company.
This National Network is supported by the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine.
Speaking to the Donegal News, Helen Doherty, Social Farming Ireland Co-ordinator, Leitrim Development Company, said the initiative is open to those with sensory or physical disabilities, people who have come through the judicial system and those who are unemployed.
“Social Farming supports people to live ordinary lives, and helps them interact with their community and environment. The farm can be a space of refuge and calm.
“Social farming takes place in a safe and supportive environment, taking into account an individual’s abilities, desires and interests. Focus remains on encouraging participants to socialise, gain confidence and build relationships. Farms have a natural restorative impact on peoples’ mental well-being, with time spent in nature and with animals and plants.
“A person may choose to spend a fixed amount of time on the farm participating in activities they may be interested in such as gardening, animal care or indoor activities such as baking bread or jam making.
“The farm is not a specialised treatment farm; rather it remains a typical working farm where people in need of support can benefit from relationship building through farm activities in a non clinical environment.
“It offers a novel experience for some and it is a therapeutic experience. It’s a sensory experience, with plenty of fresh air, sounds and views and it builds a routine and a sense of purpose for caring as opposed to being cared for.”
Ms Doherty said the event is informal, and helps participants decreases feelings of loneliness and isolation they may have.
She said it also offers benefits to the farmers who are involved.
“Farmers experience a sense of personal satisfaction from making a difference in the lives of the participants and improved community connections.”
The experience is open to anyone over the age of 14, but it must be pre-booked by emailing Caoimhe McKeon on socialfarming@ldco.ie or calling (071) 9641772.
Eircode and further details will be provided on booking.
“Social Farming supports people in living ordinary lives, interacting with their community and environment, developing their potential. It gives people an opportunity to try new things, meeting new people and making friends; greater independence and personal responsibility; and tackling social exclusion by integrating people,” said Helen.
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