Lambs sign of hope at struggling care farm

Lambing season is always a special time of year at the Askefield Project in Friskney but this spring, because of the coronavirus crisis, organisers are having to cope without the help of volunteers,

"We are expecting around 30 lambs," said Hannah Blevins, who opened the non for profit care farm with her husband Chris in 2007. "Unfortunately we will not be able to hold our fundraising open day which is always popular and have had to cancel our other summer events, leaving funds very tight.

"However, we are keeping in touch with pictures and videos on our Facebook page and doing what we can by providing activity packs to engage with out clients."

Partly funded by the NHS Mental Health Partnership, the Askefield Project launched two new schemes this year - ASKEfriends and the Toolshed.

​ASKEfriends is a weekly coffee morning on Thursdays, starting at 8.45am, which is continuing online while the farm is closed.

The Toolshed is based in a newly refurbished barn or around the farm for people who want to create something to help improve their mental health but who have not got the space, tools or confidence to do it at home. This will resume when the farm re-opens.

"Many of our clients already suffer isolation so we are doing what we can to stay in touch," said Hannah.

During the lockdown, as well as caring for the animals on the farm, the Blevins have been improving the car park.

"We are really looking forward to welcoming people back when this is all over," said Hannah. "But in the meantime please keep in touch by visiting us on Facebook."

Anyone wishing to make a donation should also message the Askefield Project Facebook page.