Sussex charity secures CLA Charitable Trust funding to help connect children with special needs to nature and animals

A Sussex charity has been awarded £2,000 from the CLA Charitable Trust (CLACT) to help connect children with special needs to nature and animals.

The trust is funded almost entirely by subscriptions and donations from members of the CLA, an organisation which represents thousands of farmers, landowners and rural businesses.

It provides grants to charities and community organisations who share its vision to help connect young people who are disabled or disadvantaged with the countryside and nature.

Chailey Heritage Foundation, based in North Chailey, Lewes, is among the groups to successfully apply for funding in the most recent round of awards, receiving £2,000. It is a charity providing education, care and transition services to children and young people with complex disabilities and health needs.

The foundation has an on-site care farm, Patchwork Farm, where youngsters can interact with animals, help grow vegetables and flowers, and enjoy a multi-sensory experience. Each year the farm is visited by more than 200 young people aged between three and 25, and the grant will be used to help support its running costs.

Will Folkes, head of fundraising at Chailey Heritage Foundation, said: “We are so grateful to the CLA Charitable Trust for awarding a grant of £2,000 to the charity.

“This wonderful grant will support the charity’s on-site therapeutic farm, Patchwork Farm, used by all the young people at our special school and in our residential service.”

Bridget Biddell, Chairman of CLACT, said: “Chailey Heritage Foundation provides a very special opportunity for young people with complex disabilities to enjoy their farm, offering exposure to farm animals and outdoor experiences.

“This is a special place with multiple health benefits for those involved, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support this work.”