Rhubarb Farm brings the great outdoors to people living with a wide range of needs. Located on the Derbyshire / Nottinghamshire border in Langwith village, Rhubarb Farm is a therapeutic horticulture and community charity. Its main focus is to provide placements for a diverse range of people to benefit from the farm’s green environment and receive support within the local community. The two-acre site features a wide variety of vegetables, fruit and flowers, along with chickens, pigs, and Murphy the donkey. The farm is the main base for the charity, which also supports a number of other community resources. Research consistently shows that spending time in the Great Outdoors improves both physical and emotional wellbeing. Rhubarb Farm is committed to making this a reality.
Studies published by organisations such as the Mental Health Foundation in 2021 (http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/research/nature-how-connecting-nature-benefits-our-mental-health) and a 2018 systematic review by Norwich Medical School (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6562165) provide strong evidence of the health benefits of nature, including positive effects on heart rate, blood pressure, cholesterol, neurological and cancer-related outcomes. Lisa, who attends the farm, said: “I feel like I have a place that is safe enough to come to even if I am struggling mentally or physically.” Neil, another attendee, added: “I hope Rhubarb Farm will be around for many years to come to benefit many more people… I always look forward to coming and going home afterwards I feel more positive, have more energy and feel more optimistic.”
Current projects
Bloom
A free eight-week horticulture course designed to help people who have or have had cancer reconnect with nature. No previous experience is required, and the course suits all abilities. A new undercover area provides a peaceful space for gentle gardening, social connection and support for physical and emotional wellbeing. Funded by South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw Cancer Alliance, the programme includes some local transport and is specifically for people in the Bassetlaw area.
Langwith Recovery Space
A supportive community initiative ensuring that recovery from substance use is possible, celebrated and accessible. Open to those in recovery, their supporters, and community members interested in building a stronger local network. For more information see www.growingrecoveryinderbyshire.co.uk/recovery-space/langwith-recovery-space-rhubarb-farm. This project is located at The Old Caretaker’s House next to Langwith Parish Hall – various opening times.
Langwith Community Food Pantry
A welcoming space where people can access affordable and nutritious food for just £5.00 per bag. Citizens Advice services are available every Thursday, offering guidance in financial and legal matters. The pantry fosters a sense of community and mutual support. Again, this project is located at The Old Caretaker’s House next to Langwith Parish Hall, and it is open Thursday and Friday.
Bolsover Social Circles
A collaborative pilot project linking green social prescribing with social connectedness to improve wellbeing and reduce reliance on mental health services. Commenced in early 2023 through Bolsover CVS, with delivery partners Bolsover Woodlands Enterprise, Pleasley Pit Visitor Centre and Rhubarb Farm, working alongside Green Spring and other Derbyshire-based collaboratives. The programme has already supported several hundred people.
Find Rhubarb Farm at Hardwick Street, Langwith NG20 9DR. You can contact them by telephone: 01623 741210 or email: enquiries@rhubarbfarm.co.uk. Alternatively, visit their website: http://www.rhubarbfarm.co.uk.