About Shirleys Field Community Farm

Welcome to Shirleys Field Community Farm, a social enterprise and charity based in Layer Breton, near the town of Tiptree and in the City of Colchester. We are dedicated to making a real difference in our community.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower individuals, promote well-being, and create positive social impact by recognising the unique value and potential of every person who joins our farm. We support those that are lonely or feeling socially isolated, individuals with diverse needs, including those with learning and developmental disabilities, mental and physical health challenges, those not in employment, education or training, individuals who are recovering from substance abuse problems, and older adults experiencing isolation.

What We Do

Through organic food production, therapeutic gardening activities, and skill-building programmes, we help people develop confidence, resilience, and new skills while creating meaningful connections with nature and community.

Our Approach

We use the therapeutic organic horticulture model for developing skills, confidence and employability, and for improving health and well-being. All our fruit, vegetables and plants are grown organically on our beautiful 6-acre site in Layer Breton.

We call all who come to Shirleys Field Farm volunteers – this gives them value and credits the work they do to help the enterprise both socially and economically. There is no time limit on any volunteer’s stay – they can come to Shirleys Field Farm for as long as they need to, because everyone needs different levels of support and time.

Our Animals

We have therapy animals on site including 2 horses, 2 pygmy goats, and 2 donkeys. Spending time with our animals provides therapeutic benefits and opportunities to learn about animal husbandry and stable management.

Community Interest Company