Set on the edge of a housing estate, the farm has welcomed ‘thousands and thousands’ of visitors
Daisy the cow meets some young visitors and donkeys Minnie and Mama enjoy some shade at East Hull Community Farm(Image: Hayley Warburton/East Hull Community Farm)
Families describe it as “a wonderful little place” and “so much fun” and now East Hull Community Farm is delighted to be in the running for a prestigious award for its work. With Daisy the cow, who has been resident since she was three weeks old – she’s now a grand lady of nine – chickens, rabbits, pigs and two donkeys to meet, the farm is open to the public and free to enter.
East Hull Community Farm, a charity since 1992, also offers immersive and rewarding day placements to adults who have learning difficulties and other disabilities. The farm knows it has made a difference to many lives on a daily basis since it was founded – now it is delighted to be having the spotlight turned on it for just that reason.
Shel Jowett is community facilitator at the farm. She said: “I think it’s high time the farm got recognition for what it does for the community.
“Earlier this year it was shortlisted in the HEY Smile Awards; we didn’t win. This one is bigger and it’s great for us to say we’ve even been nominated and we’re so proud to be shortlisted, we get to find out if we’ve won at the awards night at the Guildhall on September 23.”
The farm was originally part of the secondary school situated next door and was used for rural studies courses. Uniquely positioned and tucked away on an east Hull estate – “you’d never know we were here if you weren’t looking for us” – the community farm is a haven where children can get up close and friendly with all the animals, learn about where their food comes from and get hands-on with some craft activities.
For others who are simply seeking some peace away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, there are quiet places to sit and read or just contemplate, a favourite spot being under a big willow tree, says Shel. “We must have welcomed thousands and thousands of visitors in our time; we’re open to anyone, we’re inclusive and wheelchair and pram friendly.”
The farm occupies eight acres and welcomes group visits and school parties as well as local families. “I’ve been coming to the farm since my girls were young and they are in their 30s now,” said Shel.
“Seeing families being able to come out here together, bring a picnic and spend the day, if they want to, is lovely. I just love the fact we’re here and we’re free – I know from personal experience how I couldn’t afford to take my children to the theme parks.”
Produce grown on the farm’s allotment is sold in the shop and all the funds ploughed back into the charity. The day placements that are provided help to fund the farm and the physical endeavours of the clients support the farm; they in turn learn skills as they experience all aspects of farming life, and develop self-worth.
“Since I’ve started here I’ve tried to get as many media platforms as possible to advertise the fact we are here. In my first year here, just over Easter, we had 600 new visitors because I’d gone to everyone I could possibly think of and schools started wanting to arrange tours.
“Out of all the animals I think the chickens and Daisy, our fully-grown cow, are the favourites of our visitors. Daisy will stay with us forever now, she’s great with the kids and so gentle.”
East Hull Community Farm posted about its shortlisting on Facebook, saying: “We are incredibly proud to announce that East Hull Community Farm has been named as one of just FOUR finalists in the BBC Make a Difference Awards! To have our farm and the work we do recognised in this way means so much to us.
“We are immensely proud of our amazing team, whose hard work, dedication and passion make East Hull Community Farm the special place it is. Every day, they work tirelessly to support our community, create opportunities, and make the farm a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.
“Being selected as a finalist is a wonderful recognition of everything our team does, and we couldn’t be prouder. Whatever happens next, being one of the final four is already an incredible achievement.”
The post was met with many likes and comments. One said: “We visited for the first time a few days ago. What a splendid, wonderful little place you have created. Be seeing you again, soon.”
One reply said: “Congratulations. Brilliant place it defo makes a difference we love it there X” and another said: “Very well deserved! You all do such an amazing job making everyone welcome. You all need awards for every morning for turning up and making a difference to everyone that visits.”
Among the other responses was one that said: “What an amazing team. Love coming here with my grandsons”; another posted: “Congratulations, number one in my book” and a further response was: “Congratulations on reaching the final 4, you deserve to win. My disabled daughter loves to visit you all.”
Anyone who would like to book a group visit can email Shel at Michelle@ehcfarm.org and you can find more information on the website and on social media.