About Oldbury Cottage Care Farm
From Dream to Reality: The Journey of Building a Care Farm
My Story
My name is Jonathan Smith. A few years ago, I had a dream. I used to work at the wonderful Parkway Club, located at Park House on Riversley Road in Nuneaton. This club was a cherished gathering place for individuals with learning disabilities and difficulties, meeting every Wednesday evening for a few hours. It was a amazing to be part of this club, and both the staff and members found it to be a profoundly impactful social hub.
Unfortunately, due to economic challenges, the council cut the funding, leading to the club’s closure and the sale of the building. However, I’m someone who believes in taking action. When I saw a sign at a local country show, I knew exactly what I wanted to do: start a Care Farm!
Care Farming
Care Farming involves the therapeutic use of farming practices. Care farms offer health, social, or educational services to individuals from various vulnerable groups. I’ve found that every Care Farm is unique, and they are all incredible. If I can achieve just a fraction of their success, I would be delighted. These farms don’t just nurture plants and animals; they nurture potential and bring smiles to people’s faces.
Fueled by my new dream, I embarked on numerous meetings, property viewings, and conversations with local residents, council staff, and my bank manager. Balancing full-time work in the fire and rescue service while having limited finances meant I needed affordable premises that required some tender loving care. I eventually found the perfect spot in Oldbury, on the outskirts of Hartshill, Nuneaton. Although partly derelict and requiring extensive work it was time to bring my vision to life!
I’ll share the rest of my story through photos and the occasional video. There’s a mix of the good, the bad, the painful, and the funny—but nothing compares to witnessing the birth of a lamb in the early morning hours, with just you and the tranquility of nature for company.
Please follow us all at the farm to see where this journey takes us!