Stonebridge City Farm runs half-term animal encounters
Stonebridge City Farm is running ticketed animal encounters through half term, raising money as it works to build a more stable future around events, volunteering, retail and community support.
Morning briefing Nottingham
Temperature
14° to 23°C
Rain
Dry today
Wind
Gusts 26 mph
Sunset
21:13
Ride details Okay to ride - some high gusts
Recommended gear
- Light layers
Best times to ride
Windy today
- 06 14°
- 09 17°
- 12 20°
- 15 22°
- 18 21°
- 21 16°
Stonebridge City Farm has daily events throughout the half-term holidays. Today there are many opportunities to get up close and personal with rabbits, sheep and goats, and chickens. These ticketed events are in aid of raising more money for the farm as it says "challenges remain" on its path to financial security.
Last Easter CEO Rick Harrington gave details of skyrocketing costs of feed and bedding for animals. In an interview with LeftLion Mr Harrington gave the impression that finances have become "stabilised" but struggled with uneven cashflow that varies with weather and seasonality. To counter this, he said the farm will take a more "business-focused approach" by improving more retail opportunities and cabins to make the farm a destination even in poor weather.
Mr Harrington said the safe space, which provides a positive impact on mental health, would cost the council more than £500,000 to fund a replacement for the health benefits it provides. This number wasn't attributed. The farm is a social hub for many people though: 160 volunteers a week turn up to host events, care for animals, and maintain the grounds.
"Stonebridge provides, and often restores, routine and structure," Mr Harrington told the LeftLion. "For volunteers, we see improved confidence, reduced social withdrawal, gradual return to work pathways, improved daily functioning, reduced isolation, informal peer support, and cross-generational contact."
The event is for all ages with tickets costing £2 to £3 during a 15 to 20 minute timeslot, depending on the animal selected to meet. The sessions are short and supervised, with limited slots, which may also help manage pressure on the animals. Booking through the website is highly recommended.
Shane P
Stonebridge City Farm is a social support system, rather than an agricultural-focused farm, though it does still have many animals.
