Care Co-ops

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Introduction

Care Co-ops Community Farm is based in Stanmer Park, Brighton and provides a green space for local people to get involved in fruit and vegetable production, using organic methods. In addition, there are lots of other activities, which allow people of all abilities, to be creative as well as practical in a space designed to be decorative and productive.

Care Co-ops

Care Co-ops has been established in Brighton for 13 years, providing housing and day care services to adults with mental health and learning difficulties. Since 1998, we have managed and provided work placements for young people on the New Deal programme. Additionally, we offer supported services for adults experiencing disabilities who are seeking employment.

The Community Farm

The Stanmer site consists of about five acres, encompassing greenhouses, polytunnels, a fruit and vegetable field, community allotments, a wildlife garden, a green woodworking area and a `quiet garden'. There are plenty of ponds, shrubberies and structures which add interest to the site, as well as attracting beneficial fauna.

People come to the Farm from all walks of life, including adults with mental health problems and learning difficulties, young unemployed people, community groups, local schools, local businesses for `challenge' days (co-ordinated by `Business in the Community') and students for nationally recognised training in organic gardening and amenity horticulture. Community groups may come and work on their plots, have a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet, or get involved in other projects at the Farm.

How is it funded?

Funding comes from a number of different sources, including Brighton & Hove Council's Social Care and Health department; Single Regeneration Budget; Employment Service and the European Social Fund. Donations in both volunteer time and materials such as old garden tools, plants, seeds, trays, all help us match the funding given by other bodies and assists in developing the site.

Staffing

The Community Farm is staffed by four full-time workers and one part-time admin worker. Some temporary workers are employed to cover staff, while volunteers play a key part in maintaining the site and supporting our services.

What do we do?

The main tasks revolve around the cropping plan for the site. The produce is sold through a variety of outlets including direct selling, Farmers' Markets and vegetable boxes. Other work involves traditional crafts, green woodworking, conservation, environmental art and `green construction'.

What are our plans?

We are applying for funding to expand the range of training that is available at the Farm. Among our objectives are: to build a strawbale community building to provide better accommodation; develop our fruit & veg production; community outreach work in East Brighton to facilitate environmental improvement; involve refugees and asylum seekers in activities at the farm; develop more links with schools and expand the opportunities for local businesses to support the work of the Community Farm.

We always welcome monetary and material donations. We can find a use for most things. Volunteers are always needed and should enquire at the farm office.