Camphill Village Trust Social Farm Lead, Claire Moore, has made the final of the British Farming Awards, in the ‘Farm Worker of the Year’ category. The British Farming Awards are entering their 7th year and are a nationally recognised event.
Claire supports adults with learning disabilities and dementia on the Social Farm, Botton Village. Day to day, Claire oversees the general running of the farm, animal husbandry, maintenance and collecting and organising produce for sale. This is all whilst looking at ways in which the people we support can take part in a meaningful, safe way.
Claire says; “Working alongside people with learning disabilities and now the dementia group is very rewarding.”
To see people overcome fears, challenges, and see the satisfaction on their faces once they have completed a task is brilliant. Also, the social aspects that they get from the farm is overwhelming, it is like we are one big happy family.”
Claire was brought up on a dairy farm, however, the family sold their herd in 2000. From then on, she went to work in banking, then latterly she fostered children and worked for social services. “I wanted to give back to people in society, once I saw the job to work here at Botton Village for Camphill Village Trust, I knew that this was my dream job. Working on the farm and supporting people is like the icing on the cake.”
The ‘Farm Worker of the Year’ category is sponsored by Isuzu UK. The judges are looking ‘individuals who can offer examples of their self-motivation and commitment to the farm businesses they work for. Candidates will be able to demonstrate a sound understanding of the business and how their efforts have contributed to a dynamic farm enterprise.’
Claire is one of four people who have been shortlisted for the award. “I’m overwhelmed, I’m quite humble and was very surprised and extremely proud.”
The final of the British Farming Awards takes place in Birmingham on 17th October, where the winners will be announced at a gala dinner.
Good luck to Claire!
British Farming Awards ‘Farm Worker of the Year’ nominations
