Welcome To Apple Tree Farm Services CIC
Nestled in the scenic North Devon countryside, just outside High Bickington, Apple Tree Farm Services CIC is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting children and young people with special educational needs, disabilities, and social, emotional, and mental health challenges.
Since its inception in 2018 and formal incorporation as a CIC in 2020, Apple Tree Farm has been guided by values of patience, respect, and nurturing care. Our team is committed to caring for our land and animals with the same dedication and compassion that we extend to our visitors.
Our Impact
You can click here to read our recent impact report, surveying parents of the children we care for. Some statistics covered by the report are outlined below.
64%
of parents rated their child’s mental health as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ prior to attending Apple Tree Farm
91%
of respondents reported a notable improvement in their child’s mental health
82%
of respondents noted an improvement in their child’s interactions with peers and adults
45%
of respondents reported ‘significant improvement’ in social behaviours
Our Approach
At Apple Tree Farm, we employ trauma-informed practices and psychological evidence-based methods, including PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy) and attachment-theory-based interventions. These approaches are integral to our support framework, ensuring that every individual receives tailored care that respects their unique needs and vulnerabilities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment where individuals can thrive. Through structured, bespoke, nature-based activities, we aim to help our visitors discover their strengths and achieve positive outcomes. Our programs are flexible, with session times and lengths tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Our Values
We believe in the power of nature and animal-assisted therapy to foster growth and healing. At Apple Tree Farm, individuals are encouraged to engage in farming practices and care for the countryside, providing them with opportunities to succeed, achieve, and be the best they can be.
Commitment to Equality
Apple Tree Farm Services CIC is dedicated to treating all individuals with equal respect and dignity, regardless of age, disability, gender, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity status, race, religion, or belief. Join us at Apple Tree Farm, where we cultivate growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging in the heart of nature.
The Community We Serve
Children and young people are at the heart of the work done at the farm and listening to their needs drives the team’s desire to carry on.
The farm supports families, schools and organisations from Barnstaple, Bideford, Torrington and the surrounding areas and the team are always keen to engage with the local community and work together where possible.
- Offering placements to vulnerable local people at the care farm
- Providing emergency placements to vulnerable children at risk of exclusion
- Supporting local businesses by buying supplies locally
- Opening the farm to the public on regular occasions (see events page for details)
- Welcoming school visits to the farm and youth groups to participate in activities on the farm
- Accommodating visitors who are from outside our area supporting the local tourism industry.
- Signposting families in need to services that can help
- Attending local fayres and events with the animals
What we do
HAF
Signposting
