A donation of £7,899 has been awarded to Ryde-based Haylands Farm by the Isle of Wight office of NFU Mutual as part of the rural insurer’s national £2.33 million ‘Agency Giving Fund’.
Haylands Farm – a self-sustainable work-based centre supported by Isle of Wight Mencap – has provided training and life skills for adults with learning disabilities for nearly 50 years. Situated on the outskirts of Ryde, the project offers hands-on experience in farming, carpentry, horticulture and other key skills, helping individuals contribute meaningfully to the local community.
The latest donation from NFU Mutual will support the construction of accessible pathways across the site, enabling wheelchair users to access more areas of the farm and participate fully in caring for the animals – something currently limited due to uneven terrain.
Nichola Cook, Manager of Haylands Farm, has said:
“We’re so grateful to the Isle of Wight office of NFU Mutual for nominating our charity to receive a donation from the NFU Mutual Agency Giving Fund. The money has gone a long way to helping us and to further develop our project. Providing access to areas of the farm is essential for those who are in wheelchairs who wish to participate in looking after the animals.”
John Heather, Senior Agent at NFU Mutual New Forest, Isle of Wight and Bournemouth, added:
“Haylands Farm is a much-loved part of the Isle of Wight’s community and we are delighted to be able to support them in their 50th year. Although well known, few are aware of the range of activities and the extent of support that they provide to those with learning difficulties. We are so pleased that through NFU Mutual’s Agency Giving Fund we can support their project to improve accessibility for those in wheelchairs and help to highlight the amazing work they do.”
The Agency Giving Fund is now in its sixth year and forms part of NFU Mutual’s wider £4 million charity pledge for 2025. More than 280 offices across the country have nominated charities in their local areas, helping ensure funds reach the organisations that need it most.
Excellent news, a very deserving cause. Well done to of you.