Bath City Farm’s much-loved Little Farmers sessions will continue to thrive over the next three years, thanks to a generous £34,000 grant from Somerset Freemasons.
The funding means around 90 children under five (and their grown-ups) will be able to take part in the weekly group, which is free to attend and open to families living in Southdown, Whiteway, Twerton and surrounding areas.
Led by an experienced co-ordinator, the group offers a friendly, welcoming space to play, explore the farm and connect with others. Activities change with the seasons and can include feeding animals, growing vegetables, craft and enjoying a healthy snack. Families can also pick up ideas to try at home and enjoy the benefits of spending time in nature together.
Little Farmers provides a positive social space for guardians and children that supports families to overcome challenges and respond to concerns about their child’s development, confidence, or access to play and outdoor space.
Sadie Rhodes, who leads the Little Farmers group at Bath City Farm, said, “We’re so grateful to Somerset Freemasons for their generous grant, which will enable us to continue and enhance our Little Farmers programme, supporting more children and their families from the local area.”
The grant comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends from across England and Wales.
Graham Puddy from Somerset Freemasons, said, “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help Bath City Farm with their excellent programme helping local children from underprivileged backgrounds. Many families are living with physical or mental health conditions or experiencing other challenges. This group gives both children and their parents a safe supportive space to learn the necessary skills to be ready for school.”
