Dedham Therapy Farm CIC - Colchester

Phil W.

We haven't used this organisations services yet but they were so kind when they dealt with our initial query about funding, how it all works and what would be best for our child. You can tell by their support staff they are an awesome organisation and I would have no hesitation to give them 5 stars!

Lucy B.

We as a family cannot recommended the therapy farm enough. Our daughter has autism with a PDA profile. At first we were unsure how our daughter would feel about attending the therapy farm. From past experience, she has always wanted to join a group or a class but very quickly she would get too overwhelmed or over stimulated and decides she doesn’t want to attend anymore. That is until we found the magic of the therapy farm, we have truly found something she loves. Before our first session I called up to let the staff know our daughter would probably be selective mute, and would not show willingness to engage. She did the opposite. We were so surprised that instantly she felt a sense of calm at the farm and happily started preparing food for the animals with the occupational therapist. We feel the sense of freedom, flexibility and very low demands has made such a difference to our daughter by elevating her self-esteem and confidence. This all blends in with her being able to make her own choices, take part in meaningful activities and to learn at her own pace. She feels listened to and totally safe, knowing that the staff will know her cues and triggers. The farm gives her a sense of purpose and something to look forward to, which is making such a positive impact on our daughter’s mental wellbeing. Before attending the session she is very excited, and after the session she can’t stop talking about it. In these moments, we feel like we have our happy little girl back! The whole set up of the farm is such a brilliant environment, all the staff are lovely and completely understand our daughter, giving a wonderful person centred approach.

David J.

Definitely worth supporting, they provide a great service to needy people of all ages with animal based therapy. Check them out. Difficult times for them, animals to feed and minimal income due covid restrictions.
So they successfully negotiated their way through covid and emerged a stronger, well managed organisation providing professional therapy to hundreds of people with Needs. Clients who refer include Educational Authorities, Probation Services, University. Private individuals.
You'd be amazed whats happening on your back doorstep! The workers have to care for the animals over Christmas, perhaps you'd consider supporting them by donations or offering to help them out.
Have a look at their website!

Chris G.

Loved it. My wife had spotted the Farm on Facebook and we gave it a go this Sunday afternoon. Everyone was really friendly, there were lots of animals for the kids to feed and pet.

The highlight for my daughter was when they asked her if she'd like her first ride on a horse. The two ladies who walked her around we're lovely and did three laps of the pen with my daughter beaming from ear-to-ear.

All the animals were in great condition and look really well looked after - definitely worth a visit!

grace D.

Easy to find. Literally behind the car park. Bring your walking boots as it is muddy after the rain. They have a small cafe. There is plenty of walking routes surrounding the farm so if you feel you need to explore more, you can walk to Flat Ford Mills, where Constable did his works. There are pubs, restaurant and cafe around the farm.

Laurence H.

We go weekly with our son (autistic & adhd). The staff are lovely and he is really taking to it. Great if you need alternative provision or therapy of any sort.

Dee G.

This is an Outstandingly Unique Community Therapy Farm situated in the magnificent Stour Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Their fantastic farm team provide 1:1support for individuals & groups to promote mental health, physical health & wellbeing. It's an experience in a million, one of nurture, serenity & tranquility through the natural environment, animals and friendly people to discover your curiosity and creativeness with nature engaging in a multitude of activities. The nuture dogs are so adorable, friendly & welcome cuddles, loving human attention & walks on the farm.

Stephanie Y.

Animals seem well cared for, really laid back environment where kids are allowed to get close to nature without too much health and safety tape. Love the new wild flower meadow.