Residents from a Calne care home are discovering new friendships, fresh experiences and plenty of smiles through a growing partnership with a youth charity farm near Bath.
Marden Court Care Home, operated by The Orders of St John Care Trust, has joined forces with Jamie’s Farm to launch the Marden/Jamie’s Farm Common Ground Programme - an initiative designed to bring older and younger generations together through shared activities and conversation.
Residents now visit the Lower Shockerwick farm every fortnight, working alongside young people supported by the charity on practical tasks before sharing lunch together. Organisers say the sessions are already building confidence, sparking friendships and creating a strong sense of belonging for everyone involved.
Funding has been secured for five further visits, ensuring the experience can continue. One recent highlight saw a resident with a love of gardening happily planting winter onions with the young participants - a simple moment that captured the spirit of the programme.
Jamie’s Farm supports young people facing challenges through immersive stays focused on building resilience, emotional wellbeing and life skills. Its Lower Shockerwick site was officially opened by Queen Camilla in 2025.
The collaboration grew from a single trial visit in December, followed by a successful return session last week. Encouraged by the response, organisers formalised the programme and strengthened ties between the two groups.
Residents and staff at Marden Court have also backed the project through fundraising, hosting a cake sale that raised more than £170 for the farm - with families and the local community joining in to show their support.
Jake Curtis, co-chief executive of Jamie’s Farm, said the initiative reflected a long-held ambition to bring generations together.
“Sharing common ground is hugely important for wellbeing, and the meaningful work on our farms creates joyful experiences together. We’re already looking forward to welcoming residents back.”
Three more residents are due to visit next week to meet the animals and spend time with the young people - with organisers hopeful the partnership will continue to grow.
For those involved, the project is proving that community connections and a shared day on the farm, can brighten lives at any age.
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