I had the honour of visiting Manor Farm Community Association in Rushall as the High Sheriff of the West Midlands. This remarkable registered charity, established 48 years ago, provides a wide range of educational, recreational, leisure, social and cultural activities for the people of Walsall. They are a Voluntary and Community Sector Lead for the East of Walsall which enables them to offer a range of support to local grassroots community organisations.
During my visit, I was truly impressed by the organisations commitment to addressing local issues through a variety of services helping up to 4000 residents a week. Manor Farm offers recreational education provision, work support activities and employability schemes which are all designed to empower residents and enhance their skills. Their innovative approach includes social prescribing and vital services for older people, ensuring that no one in the community is left behind.
One of the standout initiatives is their Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Bus which travels around Walsall communities to provide essential mental health services. I also learned about their engagement with local employers through breakfast meetings which foster collaboration and job opportunities.
The facilities at Manor Farm are so impressive and they provide so many different services covering health, well-being and have a great IT platform. They also provide numerous sports activities and even have a wonderful bistro. What truly resonates with me is their focus on reducing social isolation through hosting events, providing bereavement support and providing activities for children and families. They serve as a Positive Outcome Project (POP) delivery hub, offering youth activities and a Volunteering Hub, while also providing crisis support and a conference centre with catering services.
A huge thanks to Gayle and everyone at Manor Farm Community Association for their warm welcome and for the invaluable contributions they make to our community. This truly is an outstanding facility and staffed by such warm and caring people.
