Twice a week from May to October, a group of people who use Thames Reach’s services spend a day working at an organic farm in the Sussex countryside.
They prepare the fields, muck out the stalls, and tend and harvest the crops.
In the winter months, participants work alongside other volunteers, conserving public land through the Downlands Countryside Management Project.
This includes felling, planting trees, clearing and traditional hedge lying.
These activities give people a chance to learn new skills and escape from hostel life and the city environment. For some, it is their first trip outside London for many years.
Working on the land is highly motivating. It gives people who may be isolated or depressed something to look forward to and a chance to be included in a welcoming group.
Participants develop a sense of community and achievement from seeing their hard work contribute to a successful harvest and improve the local environment.
A third of farm and conservation helpers have alcohol problems. Alcohol is not allowed on the project, and the work provides a welcome distraction for those trying to avoid drink.
Some participants are given the opportunity to train and work as farm assistant volunteers. This improves their employability and provides new farm workers with positive role models.
Funding
This project is the result of a partnership between the Tebbutt family, owners of the Boathouse Organic Farm, and Thames Reach. It is part-funded by the Homelessness Directorate and relies on the generosity of donors to run each year.
Please support the work of the farm and conservation project by making a donation to Thames Reach.
