Farming Their Way Back onto the Straight and Narrow

2.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 4th Oct 2007

"I am greatly impressed by the Centre's work to assist those suffering from social exclusion by giving individuals a sense of self-pride in their achievements and aspiration to improve further" said Kirsty Williams, Local AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, following her visit to the Curlew Centre in Presteigne.

Kirsty visiting the Curlew Centre in Presteigne

The Curlew Centre, based on a 15-acre smallholding, provides support and new skills to members of the community who may feel socially excluded. The centre supports those who are excluded from schoolwork or social interaction because of their health or social situation. Support is provided through a range of activities based around Agriculture, Horticulture and Countryside Skills.

Kirsty commented: "It is enthusing to see such a holistic and therapeutic approach to assisting those who society has not served as well as it could have and giving them the support needed to help reengage them into positive participation. Such attainment of skills and contribution gives a great feeling of self-worth."

The centre provides tailor made activities in a safe and secure environment that seeks to meet individual's particular needs. Work is carried out in partnership with a number of other community support agencies and youth services.

"Particularly impressive was the land management and environment BTEC programme, with modules in Horticulture and husbandry, providing vocational training for 14-year-old students on the working farm. The pupils are busy working in the vegetable garden, putting in gateposts and caring for the stock, chickens and horses. This is providing them with the skills to work locally in the farming industry, which is in desperate need of young entrants, and also gives the hunger to continue to learn other skills which could lead to further education or employment."

The Centre hopes to expand its provisions to include services to the local community such as garden maintenance for the elderly. In the longer term they hope to offer respite residential care, an arts centre, along with a venue for retreat and worship.

Kirsty said: "This is a wonderful social enterprise that is seeking to support those who have been failed by the mainstream system. They are being helped to feel a worthwhile part of society and encouraged to contribute in a positive way, whilst learning some great skills and most importantly having a lot of fun along the way."