Partnerships

Southwark Council Children’s Services have been working in partnership with Surrey Docks Farm for several years, we host weekly sessions for young people referred through the service.

Here’s what Leila Boghdadi, Reparation & Volunteers Officer says about the project:

“Young people aged 12-18, supported by a professional carpenter and volunteer mentors, help run the Farm’s ‘handyperson’ service; making bird boxes and planters, welly-boot stands and signposts. They learn skills in carpentry and spend time on the farm, unable to avoid ferret smells and goat butts (not standard practice for youths), whilst experiencing a snippet of life away from the hustle and bustle of busy urban life.

“The animals at the Farm offer quite a therapeutic relief from the stresses of adolescents and many enjoy spending their break times interacting with them. They feel good about being useful and doing something worthwhile.

“For some of our young ‘handy people’, the boost to their self-esteem and wellbeing from helping others, is a new experience. Over the years, young people who may have struggled with school or apprenticeships, learn how to work and enjoy it. They surprise themselves with their skills and motivation. The Farm welcomes everybody and makes them feel valued and respected.”