Island Charity Haylands Farm Receives £7,899 Donation To Boost Accessibility

Local charity Haylands Farm has received a donation of £7,899 from NFU Mutual’s national £2.33 million Agency Giving Fund, after being nominated by the insurer’s Isle of Wight office.

Now approaching its 50th year, Haylands Farm — based on the outskirts of Ryde — provides a work-based environment for adults with learning disabilities, helping them develop skills in farming, carpentry, horticulture, and everyday life.

The farm, which is supported by Isle of Wight Mencap, operates as a self-sustaining project, with much of its funding raised locally.

One of its key ongoing projects is the creation of accessible pathways across farmland, allowing wheelchair users to move freely and take part in caring for the animals.

Haylands Farm Manager Nichola Cook said:

“We’re so grateful to the Isle of Wight office of NFU Mutual for nominating our charity.

"The donation has gone a long way towards helping us develop our project and provide better access for wheelchair users who want to participate in looking after the animals.”

John Heather, Senior Agent at NFU Mutual New Forest, Isle of Wight and Bournemouth, added:

“Haylands Farm is a much-loved part of the island’s community and we’re delighted to support them in their 50th year.

"Although well known, few people realise the range of activities and level of support they provide.

"We’re proud to help fund their accessibility project and highlight the amazing work they do.”

The £7,899 donation forms part of NFU Mutual’s wider £4 million funding pledge for local and national charities in 2025.

Through the Agency Giving Fund, over 280 NFU Mutual offices across the UK have been able to nominate community projects and charities making a real difference in their areas.