James visited the Little Learning Barn at St Margaret’s Meadow Farm in Halesowen on Friday (6th April), where he had an opportunity to meet director Laura Littlewood and the animals on site.
Laura has over 20 years of experience of working with adults with learning difficulties and mental health issues, and with her love of animals she began volunteering at St Margaret's Meadow Farm CIC, before renting from the farm to start her own venture.
The Little Learning Barn runs parent and toddler groups and SEND sessions to help those with learning difficulties and mental health issues, giving them an opportunity to get up lose to the animals in a safe environment. Sessions include opportunities to stroke and cuddle the animals, as well as feeding them and putting them to bed and getting involved in other farmyard chores.
Animals at the farm, which is just off the A456 in Halesowen, include rabbits, goats, pigs, alpacas and donkeys, and James had the opportunity to meet them, feed them and give them a fuss!
“I want to thank Laura for showing me round the Little Learning Barn and introducing me to all the animals. It was great fun, and they were all so well behaved for me!", said James.
“Spending time on a farmyard and learning new skills to look after animals is great for those with SEND or struggling with mental health issues, in a calmer and quieter environment. It’s a fantastic venture and real asset for SEND and mental health provision in our town, and I’d encourage those who have someone in their care who could benefit to check out their website.”
Laura Littlewood, Director of the Little Learning Barn, added, “Little Learning Barn supports young children and those with SEND as it gives a safe space away from the general public where families feel safe and valued. Animals can be very therapeutic to the children that visit, often making them feel calmer and bringing out their confidence. It was great to have James with us to show him round and talk about what we do.”
