Young people from Northampton Saints Foundation have seen the wellbeing of individuals improve thanks to The Woad Farm Project.
The Woad Farm Project is a not-for-profit, set up by foster carers in Milton Keynes with a background in children’s social care, charities and farming.
After experiencing first-hand the lack of support and activities for young people with poor mental health, Beth and Clare set up the project, to enable children and young people to heal and grow through creating therapeutic, fun and memorable experiences in an outdoor environment.
Since October 2022, over 60 young people from the Foundation’s Engage programme, have visited the project which has helped to improve their confidence, self-esteem and communication skills.
Supporting 7-16 years old, the Engage programme works with young people who are disengaged from mainstream education and in need of additional support to regain control of their academic pathway. With hubs across Northampton, Milton Keynes, Corby and Ipswich, many have experienced mental health issues, attainment challenges, behavioural problems and traumas which can affect their education.
Harry James, Engage Manager at Northampton Saints Foundation said “We’ve seen some fantastic results since working with Woad Farm, our young people really enjoy caring for the animals and immersing themselves in nature. We have noticed a different in their general mental wellbeing with many coming out of their shell”.
Clare Stacey, a Director at The Woad Farm Project added “Not all children have the opportunities to spend quality time with animals and in nature, yet it is proven to reduce stress and anxiety in children and adults alike".
If you would like to make a referral to the Engage programme, or find out more information, please email [email protected]
