Inclusive Farm to give disabled young people new opportunities in Scotland 

 

Inclusive Farm is seeking partners to support the development of a farm in Scotland, providing young people with disabilities with a route into agriculture. 

Founded in January 2021, Inclusive Farm, which is based in Bedfordshire, was set up by Mike Duxbury and Ness Shillito. Each week they welcome students with diverse needs onto their farm and give them the confidence and skills to pursue a worthwhile and fulfilling career in agriculture.  

Mike, who lost his sight at age six, wants to provide the same opportunities to young people in Scotland. 

“90% of blind people, and 78% of autistic people, are unemployed – but it doesn’t have to be like this. We’re seeing first-hand the impact of providing skills such as animal husbandry has had on the young people visiting Inclusive Farm. 

“Our vision for has always been simple: there are disabled people across the United Kingdom, and we plan to develop Inclusive Farms in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

“We now have the opportunity to achieve this in Scotland and we want young people to be in the driving seat. Too often disabled people are told what they need, and we are determined that their voices and needs are met.” 

Inclusive Farm is seeking like-minded organisations to partner with the project. 

Dr Jenna Ross OBE, a Scottish environmental scientist, agricultural researcher, STEM Ambassador and EDI Champion, strongly encourages businesses and industry to support the project. 

“Labour is one of the biggest issues plaguing our industry, but there is a demographic that is constantly overlooked. “

“A golden opportunity is now available for partners to come forward and help be part of a project which is pioneering an inclusive approach to agriculture.” 

Young people are encouraged to register their interest, and businesses interested in partnering the initiative should do so by emailing Mike via:  info@inclusivefarm.co.uk