We’re almost there!

What we do​

Willow Haven is a Community Interest Company offering outdoor, practical learning through care-farm activity. (CIC number: 12245913)

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We work with children and young people - particularly those who do not thrive in mainstream education - providing small-group and one-to-one sessions rooted in:

• time outdoors

• working with animals

• practical, hands-on activity

• calm, structured support

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Our approach is shaped by decades of combined experience in delivering outdoor education and nature based activities for local children, young people and families including many with complex or additional needs.

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A project returning

For many years, we were known as Hundred River Farm and supported local children and families through workshops, holiday activities and regular sessions. When our tenancy ended, we had to relocate and rebuild.

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This new site at Willow Haven has taken time.

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Planning delays have have caused sleepless nights as even with temporary, removable structures, the process required full planning permission and additional BNG reports. It has been a long, expensive and difficult step for a small organisation, but it is now complete.

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We are ready to begin again—this time with a more focused offer supporting young people who would benefit most from this kind of setting.​​

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Where we are now

We have been accepted onto a local authority framework for Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) provision. This means we are able to deliver funded placements from school or council referals once fully operational. We are also able to offer private bookings for small groups and will be starting regular groups which young people can apply to join soon.

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The foundations are in place:

• the animals are here

• the site is established

• the approach is proven​​​​

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Why we’re fundraising

Before the new academic year begins, there is a gap.

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We still need to complete the final essential repairs, safety measures, training and setup so we can begin delivery safely and consistently.

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There are upfront costs that need to be covered—training, equipment, site preparation—alongside ongoing costs such as animal food and care. Once delivery starts, payment schedules can also take several weeks to come through so ​the crowdfunding campaign is helping us bridge that gap so we can reopen without delay.

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What support will enable

• complete final safety works and site preparation

• operate with the right training, checks and systems in place

• begin introductory sessions and build relationships with young people and referrers

• move into regular, funded placements for the new academic year

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Most importantly, it allows young people who need a different environment to access consistent time outdoors, working with animals in a calm and supportive setting.​

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