Wellgate Wellbeing Project - NHS Property Services

Aim: NHS Property Services colleague fundraising for Wellgate Wellbeing Project

Wellgate Community Farm is proud to announce an exciting opportunity to expand accessibility for individuals with mobility needs, anxiety issues, and disabilities, including wheelchair users. This project aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their physical or mental health challenges, can take part in farm activities.

Background

For over forty years, Wellgate Community Farm has welcomed volunteers and visitors, observing firsthand the transformative effects of working outdoors with animals and plants. However, many individuals are unable to access our facilities due to various barriers, including:

• Inability to stand for extended periods
• Small group sizes due to mental health needs
• Lack of wheelchair-accessible infrastructure
• Lack of a quiet place for those who get anxious around crowds of people.

Every year, we receive over 100 requests from individuals and organizations to participate in volunteering, gardening, or animal therapy encounters. Unfortunately, a significant portion of these requests cannot be accommodated under current conditions.

Project Objectives

Wellgate Wellbeing Project is designed to address these challenges and provide a safe, inclusive environment for individuals facing health issues, anxiety, or social exclusion including carers. 

Our vision is to:

• Support those with long-term illnesses who lack communal support
• Address loneliness and accessibility challenges
• Promote healing through outdoor activities and animal care

Key Features of the Project

Through evidence-based approaches, such as sensory-based learning and gentle animal care, we aim to foster:

• Confidence and empathy
• Life skills development
• Emotional wellbeing in a non-judgmental space

Examples: Studies demonstrate that stroking animals can release relaxation hormones, reduce anxiety, and provide comfort. Building on this, the farm offers opportunities for hands-on engagement that extends beyond simple interaction.

Target Beneficiaries

The project primarily focuses on people with health challenges including those with:

• Learning difficulties
• Disabilities
• Anxiety or mental illnesses
• Recovering from drug or alcohol dependency

Planned use of donations

Funds raised will enable the farm to:

• Purchase a high-quality shepherd’s hut with large windows for natural light and relaxation
• Construct an accessible path and ramp for wheelchair users and those with mobility limitations
• Acquire gardening equipment to fit various adaptations and personal protective equipment and materials

These improvements will create an inclusive space for beneficiaries to engage in a variety of activities, such as:

• Animal care
• Horticulture
• Farm crafts
• Team-building exercises
• Relaxation and coffee and tea time 

Benefits of Participation

Working at the farm offers numerous benefits, including:

• Learning new skills and gaining knowledge
• Engaging in natural, accessible physical exercise
• Finding purpose and boosting self-esteem through community involvement
• Building social connections and support networks

Example: Participants often report a sense of camaraderie and community as they work together on shared tasks, fostering friendships and emotional support.

Community Engagement

The project will strengthen ties with residents, carers, social prescribers, and other services to ensure support reaches those most in need. Planned activities include:

• Community events to showcase participants’ progress
• Opportunities for intergenerational knowledge-sharing
• Maintaining communal areas and ensuring site easy access

The shepherd’s hut will serve as a space for relaxation and mindfulness, allowing individuals to reconnect with themselves and others.

How You Can Help

Your contribution is vital to kick-start this initiative. By supporting our Crowdfunder campaign, you will:

• Help demonstrate community backing for the project
• Enable us to secure additional funding from other sources
• Play a positive role in enabling to reach out to those who are unable to come and use this valuable green space

This funding will allow Wellgate Community Farm to provide a safe, supportive space for beneficiaries, enriching their lives through meaningful engagement and personal growth.

Wellgate Wellbeing Project offers a unique opportunity to bring people together, foster inclusivity, and create lasting positive impacts. Together, we can make this vision a reality and transform lives through the healing power of nature and community engagement.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 11th August 2025 at 9:51am