22 Feb 2023

Quartet Community Foundation Grant to local charity - Empowering Futures

We are delighted to receive feedback from our latest grant via the Quartet Community Foundation:

What did the grant fund?

“The funding has allowed us to purchase 100m of solid pathway made from mud control slabs and the sand to lay it on and improve the access for people with mobility issues and balance, and include those who are wheelchair bound. It has also improved the access for everyone visiting the site”.

How many people benefitted?

500

What difference has the grant made?

“It has enabled disabled people to access a green space, previously inaccessible to them because of the terrain and their needs. It has allowed their general mental health and wellbeing to improve and they have enjoyed time spent outdoors performing meaning activity. The participation in activity and movement has provided exercise in innovative ways like walking the goats. Without safe pathways this would not be possible for many disabled and older people. The farm will be completely accessible during all seasons. The weather has impacted the ability for people with mobility issues to access the site. The new mud control pathway, whilst expensive, it is the best and carries a long guarantee and is used by farmers for tractors. The ability of it to stay safe when the ground is sodden is amazing. Its long lasting life span and eco friendliness means it does not harm the land beneath it. The grant has allowed our farm to provide a safe entrance and pathway opening it up to wheelchair users and people with mobility issues in a safe way. It has enabled a safer space for everyone to be created especially those with any form of mobility issues. We have been able to demonstrate our site is fit for purpose and allows complete Equality of access unlike most green spaces. (Evident after Covid). Many visitors have told us, it is the first time that they have been so close to a farm animal. Feedback has told us how much better visitors felt after visiting and spending time in the outdoors. Our farm is now able to provide opportunities to all people who are wheelchair bound and those that struggle with their mobility. Feedback from the local school about how much their children enjoyed the opportunity and benefitted from an incredible opportunity was received. Over 45 visited weekly during the warmer months and walked to the farm and back for added exercise. Social care clients were able to visit, regardless of disability. Trip hazards and other barriers were addressed directly with the pathway which will last for many many years and is eco-friendly and made from recycled materials.”

What happens now?

“We have been awarded funding to create an extension to our building to provide extra indoor space and extra outdoor space, undercover which enables more people to access and use the farm all year round. The pathway will provide a level primary access to it, meaning no one will be prevented from using the farm.”

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