A charitable ‘community farm’ using outdoors based activity to support adults with Additional Learning Needs, veterans and those at risk of social exclusion, has been set up in Redberth, Pembrokeshire after its founder found a void in the area to help those with such needs.
Daisy Coleman who recently embarked on a hiking challenge to Everest Base Camp in aid of the Armed Forces Para Snowsports Team has set up Redberth Croft CIC.
“Redberth Croft CIC is a charitable community farm dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of veterans, adults with Additional Learning Needs, carers and those at risk of social exclusion through outdoor-based activities, conservation projects, and animal-assisted therapy using our rescue animals which have come into our care through no fault of their own - aside from being a little misunderstood!” explained Daisy.
“Our initiatives and activities aim to improve mental and physical health, build community resilience, and promote environmental sustainability.
“By fostering a sense of purpose and connection, we strive to positively impact the lives of those we support, those that support us, and the broader community in Pembrokeshire and West Wales,” she continued.
On setting up the CIC at the smallholding in Redberth, which sits nearby Saundersfoot, where Daisy is from, she went onto explain: “As a former military veteran, I had experienced firsthand the healing power of nature on mental health. Yet, I discovered a glaring gap in support services for both special needs adults and veterans in our area.
“Determined to fill this void, I embarked on a mission to transform my smallholding into a sanctuary for healing and growth.
“My sister Lucy, a high-functioning individual with Down syndrome, was struggling to find fulfilment and companionship. Witnessing her challenges ignited a fire within me to create a place where individuals like Lucy could flourish.
“What began as a personal journey of restoration has blossomed into a visionary initiative to empower individuals from all walks of life.
“Environmental stewardship is at the heart of our mission. We prioritize sustainable practices to protect our planet for future generations,” added Daisy.
Redberth Croft CIC this month was presented with a very generous donation of £500 from Pembroke and Pembroke Dock Lions Club.
You can head to Redberth Croft on Facebook to find out more; and anyone wishing to donate can do so at the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/croftcrew?utm_term=M5zwN72rv