Member’s Social Evening at Handley Farm

We had a really enjoyable evening at Handley Farm, where our members enjoyed a heartwarming and inspiring experience whilst sharing good food.

Our evening began with the goat tour, where we learned all about their care and goat’s cheese. We then gathered in the Bull Shed—a transformed space that was once the farm’s milking parlour, with cockerel footprints still visible in the concrete floor. Complete with a warm hearth and a cosy bar, the Bull Shed was the perfect setting for a delicious pie supper.

The highlight of the evening was an inspirational talk by Chris Fisher, the Blind Woodturner. Chris, the UK’s only blind, award-winning professional woodturner, shared his incredible journey from adversity to accomplishment. Before discovering woodturning, Chris struggled with years of deep depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and even suicidal thoughts—a journey that resonates deeply with many. Despite these hardships, Chris found healing and purpose through woodturning, becoming the first blind turner accepted into the Register of Professional Turners and a patron of UK Men’s Sheds. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and creativity, and it left a profound impact on everyone in attendance.

Handley Farm itself embodies the same spirit of community and care. This year, they launched the Handley Care Farm CIC (Community Interest Company), an initiative designed to provide meaningful opportunities for adults and children who may need extra support. The Care Farm offers nature-based activities where individuals can develop new skills, make social connections, and enjoy the healing power of an open, green environment. Handley Farm’s commitment to community wellness shines through this initiative, offering a safe and nurturing space for people to engage with nature and farm life.

Adding to this community spirit, Handley Farm is also building a The Belper Shed at the farm. Open to both men and women, the Shed will be a space for people to come together to connect, create, and support local projects. It will allow members to make, repair, and repurpose items, serving as a valuable community hub for Belper and the surrounding areas. Community sheds like this have proven benefits, including improved well-being, reduced loneliness, and relief from social isolation.

Our evening at Handley Farm was a perfect blend of warmth, inspiration, great food and good company.

A huge thank you to Handley Farm for hosting us.