All Grants Awarded

Description

Rhubarb Farm brings together vulnerable people, addicts, the mentally ill, disabled and former offenders as part of a ‘horticultural social enterprise’, based on a 2-acre farm in Langwith, Derbyshire. Langwith is a former mining town that is now in economic decline, with higher than average numbers of individuals not in education, employment or training; sclerotic traditional industries and a rise in hate crime. Many volunteers on the farm face severe challenges – stigma, prejudice, self-esteem, illiteracy and addiction – but are all united in a common purpose, sharing experience and support by participating in joint physical, outdoor, purposeful work. Of the 12-strong core team, 7 arrived with mental health issues, 2 are ex-offenders, 2 are former substance misusers, and one struggled with transgender identity issues. The Farm has helped over 150 individuals into work. With funding from The Fore, Rhubarb Farm will develop three sustainable revenue streams. The Fore’s funding will also support succession planning for the Farm?s Managing Director.