The Shallowford Trust uses Innovation Fund grant to support outdoor wellbeing activities
The Devon Mental Health Alliance Innovation Fund has been awarded to The Shallowford Trust by our Community Mental Health Development Leads in Plymouth & West Devon.
The Shallowford Trust owns and operates East Shallowford Farm, a medieval working hill farm located in the middle of Dartmoor National Park, outside Newton Abbot and close to Princetown and Bovey Tracey. Conservation Officer Ellie Baker explained the work that the Trust does to help people across Devon with their mental wellbeing:
“The Shallowford Trust provides opportunities for young people and adults from disadvantaged backgrounds to connect with Dartmoor’s farms, landscapes, and nature through tactile experiences.
Visitors gain genuinely hands-on work experience with livestock, experience nature through surveys, river dipping, create nature art, or simply experience the tranquillity of being immersed in the farm environment.
Historically, the majority of the Trust’s work has been providing residential and day trips for young people from inner city areas. However, over the last year we have been able to extend our reach to marginalised adult groups who do not normally engage with these environments, including those with memory loss or dementia, adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs, and those who have been referred to us through social prescribing services. ”
Speaking after the Trust was awarded its grant from the Innovation Fund, Ellie added:
“The Trust primarily works with disadvantaged youths, but also reaches out to adult members of the community who will benefit from connecting with nature and farming to improve their mental wellbeing. This funding enables us to overcome the financial barriers that prevent these members of the community being able to reach us, such as the costs of transport. In a time when these costs are skyrocketing, this funding will enable us to continue to reach those that need it most. Thank you!”
If you work for a VCSE organisation in any area of Devon that is working towards delivering innovative support to people experiencing severe mental illness, why not apply for an award from our Innovation Fund? Grants of up to £800 are available.