Celebrating Shared Lives week at the Amelia Trust Farm

This summer we had an amazing day at Amelia Trust Farm, to celebrate Shared Lives Week. As well as our Shared Lives carers and the people they support we invited people from across all our services! Our group had the opportunity to participate in the Awesome Animal Experience, which was a huge hit, giving everyone the chance to meet snakes, rabbits and many other incredible animals at the farm. The hands-on learning provided everyone with memorable and educational interactions with the animals. We extend a big thank you to Amelia Trust Farm for hosting us and creating such a brilliant experience.

Amelia Trust Farm is a small charity that has been established for over 30 years. With a history of providing a safe and welcoming space for the local community, their aim is to encourage everyone to enjoy the benefits of spending time in nature.

It's very important to us at Ategi to host events and bring together our Shared Lives carers and the people we support from across our services, at Ategi we want people to feel part of a community, make friends, and learn new skills. These gatherings create a supportive environment where everyone can connect and have fun. Bringing in animals for people to meet and handle can make these events even better. Interacting with animals can reduce stress, lift spirits, and encourage positive social interactions. Plus, spending time with animals can be very calming and offer a comforting, non-judgmental companionship that adds a lot to these community events. Which is why we're so thrilled to have had the chance to be hosted by the Amelia TRust and participate in the "Awesome Animal Experience".

In addition to the animal interactions, we were fortunate to have Sheleagh, our Fundraising Manager, lead a calming Qigong session. Her guidance helped everyone connect with their inner peace.

It was so lovely to have everyone together in one room, to celebrate Shared Lives Week. Thank you to everyone who came along, we look forward to the next one!

‘I enjoyed it all! It was very interesting and I enjoyed holding the Rabbits, Ferrets and the Guinea Pigs however I didn’t fancy holding the snake! I also enjoyed feeding the Goats and Alpacas. The staff at the farm were lovely and I really enjoyed myself’

Pip - Lives with her Shared Lives carer, Paula.

Take a look at more pictures from the day

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Richie, a young man with learning disabilities who is being supported to do some bowling with his support worker.

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25 Jun 2024