Children with disabilities and special needs are to benefit after a national housebuilder in Kenilworth donated building material to help develop space at a charity-run farm for them to relax.
Linden Homes – part of the newly-formed Vistry Group – has provided all remaining required materials, including plaster and skirting board, to complete The Langdale Trust project at its farm, Spencer’s Retreat, in Berkswell.
The material will be used to convert old stables into a bright and cheery place for the children – who often suffer from anxiety and stress in public – and their families to unwind and meet farmyard animals.
Paul Bennison, Vistry West Midlands marketing manager, said: “Vistry Group is very proud to be able to help charities like The Langdale Trust, which helps children and their families enjoy the farmyard experience while offering a tranquil place to relax away from the stresses of everyday life. We’re delighted to have donated these materials to Spencer’s Retreat and cannot wait to see youngsters enjoy the stables in the future.”
Spencer’s Retreat was set up by Kate and Simon Morris, who manage the land, for their two autistic children so that they could have fun outside with a variety of rescue animals. Converted stable lounge areas are being used at the farm to help children adjust to the new environment with games, such as Lego, and musical instruments. Coventry Timber Products has also committed to the project.
The farm has also sparked interest from nearby care homes, which are sure their residents will benefit from the relaxing environment. The retreat plans to reopen for visitors on 6th July.
Simon, chairman of The Langdale Trust, added: “We’re extremely happy with Vistry Group’s donation – these materials will go a long way to converting old stables into the safe and happy spaces we want to create to support more children and families and make sure they have as an enjoyable experience as possible when they visit us.
“We need a lot of support in the current climate, to keep the farm running and the animals fed. We are working hard behind the scenes to get things ready for when we open next month and Vistry Group’s contribution will make a big difference.”
To find out more about Spencer’s Retreat and donate towards it, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/20jswfz61c.
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