Press Release

Apple Tree Farm Services CIC Receives £19,435 from The National Lottery Community Fund to Expand Mental Health Support in North Devon

Apple Tree Farm Services CIC, based in North Devon, has been awarded £19,435.00 from The National Lottery Community Fund to launch its new “Roots to Resilience” counselling project.

The funding will support the delivery of accessible early-intervention mental health support for young people aged 14+, families, and staff connected to Apple Tree Farm. The project will run at the farm’s therapeutic setting in High Bickington, North Devon, from September 2026 to August 2027.

The Roots to Resilience project will provide one-to-one counselling sessions delivered by a qualified counsellor within a safe, farm-based environment. The service aims to support individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, burnout, emotional distress and other mental health challenges, with up to 25 people expected to benefit each year.

The project responds to growing demand for accessible mental health support within the local community, particularly for young people and families who may face barriers accessing traditional services. By offering support in a familiar and non-clinical setting, Apple Tree Farm hopes to provide early help before difficulties escalate further.

Lyn, the project counsellor, said:

‘I feel very excited to be part of this amazing opportunity. Apple Tree Farm in itself is a wonderfully therapeutic setting for this service, facilitated with thanks to The National Lottery Community Fund.

I hope it will encourage other organisations to explore the possibility of providing external support for their staff in way of a counsellor in the future.’

Brenda Pedroni, Founder and Director of Apple Tree Farm Services CIC, said:

“Demand for mental health support continues to grow, and we are seeing first-hand the impact this has on young people, families and those working in caring roles. This project allows us to offer meaningful, early support within a trusted environment – helping people feel heard, supported and better equipped to cope. It is our hope that we will be able to provide people with skills to strengthen their foundations, their roots and build resilience to thrive, hence the project name Roots to Resilience.”

Apple Tree Farm Services CIC provides therapeutic, nature-based support for children and families across North Devon, particularly those experiencing special educational needs, neurodivergence and social, emotional and mental health challenges.

Further information about the Roots to Resilience counselling service and referral process will be available via the Apple Tree Farm Services CIC website from 1st July 2026.