Businesses and individuals from the Bath area are being urged to support the launch of a nature-focused initiative for adults with a learning disability – with only four weeks to raise the funds to make it reality.
Community interest organisation (CIO) and registered charity See Me Be has secured land on an organic beef farm near Trowbridge to create an accessible space where the individuals it supports can grow produce, maintain paid employment, feel connected to nature and be part of their community.
But for this vision to become a reality, a minimum of £10,000 needs to be raised by 22 December.
Occupational therapist Lucy Moules founded See Me Be in 2020 with a vision of helping adults with a learning disability enter the world of paid employment.
Having built relationships with employers to facilitate access and opportunities to paid employment, it is now focused on taking its vision further next year by creating the productive garden that will provide paid employment opportunities.
See Me Be is running the fundraising campaign via the Aviva Community Fund in partnership with Save Our Wild Isles fund to finance the purpose-driven project.
The fund is matching every single individual donation received up to £250, providing a valuable one-off fundraising opportunity for See Me Be to achieve its ambitious goal.
Lucy, pictured, said: “We focus firmly on ability, not disability, at See Me Be. It is our belief that, through meaningful occupation, a clear sense of purpose, and focused activity out in nature, there are significant benefits to a person's physical and mental health and well-being.
“Our intention with the creation of this productive garden is to help overcome some of the many barriers that adults with a learning disability can face on the path to paid employment.”
While the land secured by the charity is largely wilderness at present, Lucy says it has incredible potential.
“There is already an abundance of fruit trees — including apples, crab apples, pear, plum and cherry — which have provided a wonderful harvest this year,” she added.
“If we can secure enough funding, we’ll ensure that the land is accessible to all by installing paths, raised beds and toilet facilities.
“We will also update an existing polytunnel on the site and purchase a summer house, tables, chairs and tools to get started.
“Any additional funds generated through this campaign will be used to directly employ adults with a learning disability.”
To pledge support for the ‘See Me Be Connected: Inclusive Access to Nature’ fundraising campaign, click here
