News January 2010

SHIFT Herefordshire Joins OCNWMR

SHIFT is a new centre in Herefordshire, near St. Weonards. It is set on a 200 acre family run farm in the heart of the beautiful Herefordshire countryside. The farm consists of sheep, cattle, calves for rearing, pigs with piglets, chickens, ducks, horses, goats and ferrets. 50 acres of land is also allocated to growing wheat and barley whilst a garden area with a poly tunnel has been specifically designated for client projects.

Working closely with local schools, colleges, authorities, probation and police services, the farm provides a practical learning environment for adults and young people. Learners are helped to see a new way of life and to escape from their own environment. They are offered the unique opportunity of a safe and therapeutic learning experience where they can develop invaluable life skills.

The experience at the farm is beneficial to clients with stress, mental health problems, drug and alcohol addictions or people who are trapped in a life of crime. The farm also reaches out to disadvantaged and disaffected youths. This location offers a 'breath of fresh air' that enables clients to gain independence and self worth.

SHIFT works with a variety of clients.  In their work with police and probation services, clients  are given responsibility and a sense of self-worth through participation in farm activities. Often, these clients have experienced a life of crime and, through the SHIFT project, they are encouraged to find a new direction in their lives that is free from crime.

Through work with schools and local authorities, pupils are offered an exciting and practical learning environment that enables them to enhance their personal and education skills.

Some of the practical skills taught are:

• sheep handling
• shearing
• animal husbandry
• cattle rearing
• pig rearing
• building and construction skills
• welding
• fixing machinery
• car maintenance
• tractor driving
• driving trailers
• ploughing
• gardening and horticulture
• vegetable growing
• lawn mower maintenance. 

Those involved gain:

• self-respect
• self-esteem
• a sense of well being
• self-fulfilment
• confidence
• social skills
• vocational training
• respect for people and animals. 

SHIFT develops and encourages a sustainable and beneficial way of working together within a community.

Further potential will now be available in the form of NOCN nationally accredited Step-Up qualifications.

For more information go to www.carefarm.co.uk or contact sarah@shiftuk.com.