KAREN DARLEY talks to the charity that will benefit from Ryedale’s Got Talent

ACORN Community Care provides sheltered work-based training for adults with learning and physical disabilities.

The charity was set up in July 2002 and is based at Whinflower Hall in Norton, which has seven acres of land used to delivery projects in horticulture and in a variety of animal husbandry, including birds of prey.

Acorn Volunteer, Ruth Holliday, said: "In this unique rural setting, individuals are encouraged to reach their potential, build confidence and learn about where our food comes from, how it is reared and cared for to produce a quality product.

"We encourage people to follow a healthy diet, to be active and gain life skills in a secure environment.

The farmhouse, which has five bedrooms, is used for Respite Care giving families additional support on evenings and weekends. Holiday breaks are also provided, based in this country and abroad.

Ruth said: "We also started in April last year, our Domiciliary Care Service, which provides support to individuals who have made that important step to move into their own home.

" A personalised service is developed to help people live as independently as possible, accessing facilities in their local community to achieve a full and active life."

Ruth said that they were very proud of what Whinflower Hall was able to offer.

"The feedback we receive from families at annual reviews consistently comment on the ‘home from home feel’ we provide for their son or daughter, whilst accessing the services at the farm," she added.

" Families say they are reassured by knowing the farm environment and committed staff team provides a safe and secure place for their family member to receive a holistic service – a range of meaningful projects and occupations during the day, daily living skills training, and social activities - socialising with their peers on evenings and weekends. They say simply, that this approach works"

However, Ruth said that all this came at a cost.

"Our Service Manager, Chris Holliday is constantly applying to Charitable Trusts to supplement the core funding received from local authorities," she added.

"The charity needs to continue to provide the same sort of environment we have now, but with better facilities. We know this environment works extremely well to meet the needs of those who need space to explore ‘growing up’, for those who struggle to express themselves positively without infringing on the needs of others when they find learning difficult or challenging.

"With support from groups such as the Rotary Club and expertise from our patron Sir Richard Storey, we are improving the facilities at the farm. We are expanding the animal projects, looking to develop sustainable way to market our ‘home grown’ produce to sell locally.

Chris Holliday, Service Manager , said the charity now needed help from the local community

"We have set a goal of December 2014 to employ two extra staff, and to have completed essential building works," he added.

"We will then be able to support many more people and make a huge difference to those with disabilities in our community."

Chirs said they presently accommodated four individuals per night, five nights per week, and had around 22 people with disabilities who used the day service.

"This needs expanding as there are still many people within this area who are in such desperate need of support and accommodation," he added.

"Therefore we are asking members of the public to become involved in helping us organise fundraising events and we would really like to organise a ‘Friends of Acorn’ committee

"Alternatively, you may not have time to help, but may wish to make a donation or think of this Charity in your Will. Either way, you will be able to make such a huge difference to the vital work we do here."

For more information contact Whinflower Hall on 01653 699922 or visit acorncommunitycare.org