Mathison and Muir Visit Glenside Farm to Highlight Community Impact of Social Farming
The Glenside Farm social project located near Comber is making a significant contribution to the community.
Nick Mathison MLA welcomed the opportunity to visit Glenside Farm alongside with Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir, recognising the significant contribution the project is making to the local community.
During the visit, Nick Mathison and Minister Muir met with the team behind the farm’s developing social farming model, which works with a range of community groups to provide meaningful access to the outdoors and rural life.
The initiative supports improved health and wellbeing while strengthening links between farming and the wider community.
The visit also highlighted the ongoing support provided by Rural Support NI, which assists with the continued development of the site. Further plans are in place to expand facilities and create additional opportunities for individuals and groups to access rural spaces.
Nick Mathison MLA said: “It was a pleasure to visit Glenside Farm alongside Minister Muir and to see first-hand the positive impact this project has.
“The work being undertaken here demonstrates how farming can play a wider social role, opening up rural spaces to community groups, and supporting health and wellbeing in a very practical way.
“Glenside Farm is already registered for social farming, but there is clear potential to broaden that model so that even more people can benefit.
“Strengthening connections between our rural communities and the wider public is important, particularly at a time when many people are facing isolation and wellbeing challenges.
“I would encourage any local groups interested in partnership working to reach out and explore the opportunities available.”
Malini Colville of Glenside Farm said: “It was great to showcase the work with the community with Minister Muir and Nick Mathison MLA.
“At Glenside Farm we are passionate about connecting the community to a working farm through events, volunteer opportunities and workshops.
“We have seen first-hand how beneficial it is to spend time in community and in nature for our health and well-being. Our developing sensory garden has shown this as our team of volunteers has grown.”
Community groups interested in working in partnership with Glenside Farm are encouraged to make direct contact to discuss potential collaboration at:
www.glensidefarm.com/contact
@glensidefarm
