Family Support
We now offer family support that includes a range of activities these are available throughout the day with the support of our staff.
Horticulture - We have a large allotment where we grow a variety of vegetables and there is always something that needs to be done. Working with the earth and tending plants has a therapeutic effect and provides a sense of fulfilment when it comes times to harvest a crop that has been tended over a period of time.
Joinery - Our large workshop provides plenty of opportunity to work producing objects for personal use or anything that may be required for the site. This is perfect for those who would like to increase their skills in this area and provides a safe environment in which to learn and explore skills in this area.
Conservation - The ABLE Project benefits from a large area of sere grassland and our recently planted orchard is developing well. Couple this with our close proximity to the river Calder and the numerous bird, and bug houses around the site and you may begin to see that we have plenty of native species frequenting or living on the site. Conducting surveys and implementing new conservation measures will help wildlife flourish.
Fish Farming - We host a innovative fish farm breeding, koi, sturgeon and tilapia and use the waste they excrete to provide the nutrients for our aquaponic system where we grow aubergines, watercress, chillies and strawberries. These, in turn, filter the water so it is clean enough to be fed back in to the fish tanks. This system is not very common and the opportunity to get involved via our supported placement would provide excellent knowledge and skills that are not widely available.
Bee Keeping - There are 11 bee hives on the site at ABLE and, as well as running courses, we can give supported placements the chance to learn how to care for bees, harvest honey and make bees wax. Every stage of the process is carried out on site so it is possible to see the entire procedure; from bees colecting nectar to the honey jars that we retail to customers.
Cooking - Our kitchen at ABLE is always well stocked with the produce we grow organically on-site and other items that cannot be grown. Our resident supervisors are all keen, if not expert, cooks and are happy to help and pass on their knowledge and skills. In the hope of nurturing the clients' inner-chef; whether it's about a bit of baking, a slamming stir-fry or a corrosive curry. We think cooking is a fun and engaging way to develop skills and confidence.
