Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill recently announced DARD’s continued support for the social farming initiative and allocated £30,000 over the next year to assist in its development.
She said: “My department’s commitment to this project has proven to be of great benefit to farmers. It has enhanced social inclusion in rural areas by connecting farmers with their communities.”
Social Farming utilises farming and agriculture as a therapeutic tool to provide health, social or educational care services. Clients of services span a range of vulnerable groups including people suffering with mental health problems, physical disabilities, learning disabilities and drug/alcohol addiction as well as adults and young people on probation.
Minister O’Neill said the pilot Social Farming Across Borders project which had been established over the past three years proved that it was a worthwhile and viable option for improving quality of life for people and contributing to tackling social exclusion in rural areas.
She added: “I have, on several occasions, had the pleasure in meeting participants and farmers who had been involved in the pilot and through these contacts, I have seen that the experiences gained on the farms, have improved immeasurably their wellbeing and health. It is for that reason that I am pleased to ensure that the project moves to the next stage with a further expansion of farmers and participants.”
Minister O’Neill concluded: “This is the type of project that helps social inclusion and improves the lives of many.”
