Community | STYLE
SOWING SEEDS FOR THE FUTURE
They aimed to create a relaxing area as well as a productive one. Outside spaces, including stables, were painted, there was strimming and clearing around the site, as well as clearing of the polytunnels so it can be enjoyed by all. The team laid pathways and planted scented, textured flowers, some of which were grown at the farm.
Young people at Haylands Farm continue to flourish, thanks to the support of the hardworking team at Isle of Wight Pearl
H
aylands Farm was opened in 1976 by two parents who wanted to provide an occupational future for children with learning
difficulties — one that may not have been otherwise available.
They were aware of the need for such a place in the community, and joined forces with Isle of Wight Mencap to provide a small day centre for other young school leavers with additional needs.
More than forty years on, Haylands Farm continues to offer this valuable facility to the Island — and this year reached out to Isle of Wight Pearl to help improve their premises.
“Through Action IW, Isle of Wight Pearl offered help to any group who wished to submit a request to them,” said Jo Freeman, of Haylands Farm. “They would take on jobs such as painting, gardening and carpentry — and offered to fund some of the cost. I sent Isle of Wight Pearl a write-up about the farm and its history, asking them if they would help us make a sensory garden.”
The agricultural farm occupies approximately fifteen acres on the outskirts of Ryde. It’s supported
almost completely by charitable donations, manpower and materials. Items made at the farm are also sold to the local community. Haylands Farm is important to the Island, it offers people a real working environment tailored to their individual needs, supports families and siblings, giving respite and enabling parents to work.
Lizzie Wade, Isle of Wight Pearl Venue Manager, said: “At the beginning of the year, I spent time meeting inspirational people across the Island, from parents to volunteers and employed people, all working for charities and organisations, looking for a garden that we could transform within a day.
“I soon realised the people I met had one thing in common: passion and dedication in delivering the best they can to their clients and young people. Haylands Farm stood out for its diversity in what they offer the Island students, who learn and develop life skills that are so important for their wellbeing.”
On 29th June this year, a team from Isle of Wight Pearl fully funded and manned the completion of a peaceful seating area, extended the working area and helped improve the excellent facilities at Haylands Farm.
For more information please visit their website.
www.haylandsfarm.co.uk September and October 2018 13
“The garden was designed by students at the IW College to benefit students with sensory needs at IW Mencap/Haylands Farm,” said Jo. “There are now nice-smelling plants, such as lavender; herbs, such as mint and sage; grasses which feel like fibre optic strands when touched; plants with fluffy feeling flowers and bamboo which makes a noise when the wind whistles through the stalks. The winning design was chosen by students at the farm.”
The team of managers from Isle of Wight Pearl created a colourful mural, placing new picnic benches in front. They painted the inside walls of the animal section and cheered up the name signs with bright paint.
Haylands Farm welcomes volunteers, as there is always lots that needs doing. The farm is also looking for a maintenance person. If anyone wishes to volunteer, call 566038 to arrange a tour around the farm.
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