Fernhill residents spent a day helping at High Mead Farm, their chosen charity this year.
The group from the Longham dementia care home explored the gardens, met pygmy goats, chickens, guinea pigs and ferrets, and were joined at lunchtime by Badger the pig.
Residents later helped the farm by planting radish, spinach and mixed salad leaf seeds, while companion Elizabeth Carpenter successfully caught a chicken which settled down and fell asleep in her lap.
The activities reflected residents’ individual interests and experiences, with Pauline Oliver recalling the chickens and guinea pigs she once kept and Vivienne Marlow returning to an activity she enjoys.
Pauline said meeting one guinea pig brought back “such lovely memories”, while Vivienne said she got “very muddy” planting vegetables but enjoyed every minute of the experience.
Home Manager Lorraine Bell said the visit helped residents remain connected with their community while supporting the farm, which provides a supported working environment for people with disabilities, mental health difficulties or recovering from illness.
