From Redundant Farm Buildings to a Thriving Children’s Nursery
The Challenge
Diversifying to maintain profitability amidst declining farm subsidies.
In 2015, an arable family farming partnership faced shrinking subsidies and sought new revenue streams. They converted redundant farm buildings into holiday lets, commercial spaces, and a small children’s nursery. The nursery proved highly successful, but rising demand for childcare in the rural area soon outstripped the available spaces.
The Vision
Recognizing the need for more childcare options in the local community, the family aimed to expand their nursery enterprise. They sought funding to double nursery spaces and increase on-site jobs by 70%. This expansion would not only boost farm income but also benefit the local area by providing essential wraparound childcare services.
The Solution
With support from the Rural England Prosperity Fund, the farm secured funding to expand the nursery, allowing for a 100% increase in childcare capacity. The project capitalized on the farm’s existing infrastructure, supporting farm diversification while addressing a pressing need for childcare in rural areas.
The Results
The expansion will create more jobs, increase business turnover, and provide a much-needed service to local families. Additionally, the nursery’s location on a working farm offers unique opportunities to educate children and parents about sustainable British farming practices, further integrating the farm into the community.
Conclusion
This project highlights the benefits of diversification for farms facing financial challenges. By expanding their nursery, the family not only secures the farm’s future but also meets an identified need for rural childcare, creating jobs and enhancing the community’s quality of life. The Rural England Prosperity Fund played a key role in making this expansion possible.
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