Farm walk and talk

Description

Our Farm walk and talk takes place on a working farm in kilmihil, we meet and have a cup of tea and a scone, then we walk the farm and meet the animals feeding some and petting others, we plant either flowers or vegetables then depending on season and then we undertake a loop walk of farm at our own pace while chatting and listening to the birds & finish off with another cup of tea and chat.

Aim of Initiative

Bring out in nature is so good for us as we age & meeting animals and petting them lowers our blood pressure
Walking the loop of the farm is so healthy for us too as we are walking without realising as we are talking to each other and enjoying each others company.

Who is it aimed at

Aimed at all active retired members.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Identify suitable farm that is willing to allow access
2. Cup of tea and scone to chat over so seating is required
   We borrow seats from local hall.
3. Ensure everyone takes on walk at own pace

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Ensuring the senior person takes on what they are physically able for only.
2. Safety on a working farm but we overcome this through consultation with the farmer
3. Some people don’t like to get dirty so ensuring lots of water taps nearby for them to wash hands and footwear

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Enjoyment of being out in open air surrounded by nature and animals
2. Exercise without knowing as you enjoy the walk with friends
3. Planting flowers and vegetable patch connects us to nature and we have the benefit of stress relief that comes with gardening.
   Also increase in local biodiversity planting a wild flower patch and strawberries which the bees love!