We believe that where there are challenges in life there are also opportunities and by working together where everyone has a role to play and something positive to contribute we can achieve a shared goal with the power of Community.
From small beginnings in 2006 the Hereford Community Farm as it is today has evolved holistically, rooted in the Community and shaped by the people who have used its services – its strength lies within the Community it serves. As a trusted service we listen and respond creatively in a ‘can do’ approach.
We have strong social, ethical, and environmental objectives that are written into our constitution and we aim to support people to live well and self-manage their health and well-being through the activities that we provide;
‘People feel valued and self-manage their health and wellbeing’
The Hereford Community Farm model encourages people to challenge themselves without fear of failure, supporting them to achieve beyond their own expectations of themselves and in turn being able to give that support to others. This enabling approach is maintained by engaging people in a meaningful and enjoyable activity that empowers them to
‘Believe in the possibility of change and to become the change they wish to see’
The natural environment and the non-threatening appeal of animals are used to facilitate approaches that will engage people in activities to support mental and physical well-being, create opportunities for learning, develop a sense of self, and empower them to become more active and independent in their Community.
Community Engagememnt
We have a long track record of working collaboratively with a wide range of community, voluntary, and statutory sector organisations. Where possible we use local suppliers and support independent businesses and have established strong local networks.
In 2022 the organisation participated in the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care Systems Working Better Together Systems Leadership Programme and this facilitated closer working with other community-led organisations and statutory sector and public services. Within this programme there was a strong focus on collaboration to develop and enable more cohesive approaches to work effectively together ‘on challenges of mutual concern that can best be solved by people and organisations working together.’
Linking with other organisations that have shared goals creates the potential to work collaboratively in addressing challenges that could be met in a complementary approach.
Hereford Community Farm pro-actively participates in conferences, seminars and information events both locally and nationally to share best practice and engage with Communities in finding a solution-led approach to common issues.
Projects we have been involved with
- We worked with the Three Counties Traditional Orchards Project replanting and bringing old orchards back into productive use and planting native species hedgerows for wildlife.
- We have delivered surplus garden produce to Hereford Food Bank.
- Ledbury Poetry Festival
- The Courtyard’s Creative Ageing Programme with an exhibition celebrating local artist Brian Hatton in 2016.