We provide activities, work experience and support for people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues from the age of 14 years old.
About Us
Vana Trust Organic Farm is a beautiful, small, mixed farm on the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire border. We raise chickens, ducks, sheep, goats and pigs. We have a large kitchen garden and polytunnel for growing organic fruit, vegetables and herbs. Our large kitchen and tea room gives space for cooking classes and craft clubs.
Background
In July 2003 Nyasha moved to Yew Tree Farm in Buckinghamshire, UK. With her social work experience and after extensive research with Local Authorities and other charities, she decided to extend the Vana Trust programme in 2009 to include an Organic Therapeutic farm project.
What We Do
We provide activities, work experience and support for people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues from the age of 13 years old.
We are a small friendly team and through the farm we gently nurture, encourage and teach trainees valuable life skills. They also gain a work ethic, purpose, a sense of belonging and feelings of accomplishment.
Benefits Of Attending The Farm
- Improves physical fitness, muscle strength & stamina
- Develops mobility, balance, manual dexterity, fine motor skills & coordination
- Reduces feelings of depression, anger, stress, anxiety & isolation
- In working together, developing communication / interpersonal skills, & teamwork
- Practical farming, gardening & cooking skills are cultivated
Background
In July 2003 Nyasha moved to Yew Tree Farm in Buckinghamshire, UK. With her social work experience and after extensive research with Local Authorities and other charities, she decided to extend the Vana Trust programme in 2009 to include an Organic Therapeutic farm project.
Our Impact
We have helped over 100 people. Over 20 people gained employment after attending the farm. Over 10 people went into further education. When surveyed, the main benefits people gained were:
- Develop Skills
- Social Contact
- Work Experience
- Being Outdoors
- Gain Confidence
- Enjoyment & Fun
- Purpose
- StructureTo The Week
Our Training Programme
We have helped over 100 people. Over 20 people gained employment after attending the farm. Over 10 people went into further education. When surveyed, the main benefits people gained were:
Animal Care
- Give feed and water to animals
- Clean out housing
- Moving livestock
- Egg collection
- Health care e.g. trimming goats’ feet
- Fixing livestock fencing and shelters
Growing Crops
- Sowing seed and planting
- Weeding and watering
- Pruning and training
- Digging and adding compost
- Harvesting and cleaning crops
Cooking Classes
- Food hygiene
- Food preparation
- Practical cooking skills
Craft Club
Creating craft items using a range of materials and techniques including:
- Greeting Cards
- Scrap books
- Needle felting
- Rag wreaths
Key Skills
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Numeracy
- Initiative
- Problem solving
- Dedication
- Reliability
- Leadership
SEN School Visits
we have regular SEN school visits for educational enrichment and work experience
Make A Donation
Make A Donation
Your donation will help vulnerable people develop essential life skills
Media Features
Vana Trust Farm was featured by ITV Meridian News!
Farm supporting young people with mental health issues sees rise in demand.
Media Features
Featured on ITV Meridian News
Farm supporting young people with mental health issues sees rise in demand.
Contact The Farm
Yew Tree Farm,
Duck Lane, Ludgershall,
Buckinghamshire
HP18 9XZ
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