HORTICULTURE & HUSBANDARY
We develop independence and a sense of responsibility through caring for our huge range of animals and maintaining our extensive gardens.
Westhay Opportunities Centre Ltd was founded by Trevor and Alison Whitcombe, after working in management for MENCAP.
We are a family orientated day service provider for adults with a vast range of learning difficulties.
Our belief is that everyone we support has the ability to succeed, they just need to be given opportunities to explore and develop in a positive and supportive environment.
There has never been a day when our daughter hasn’t wanted to go to Westhay which hasn’t always been the case in some of her other placements. As she says “ Westhay has lovely, friendly staff and I’ve made some really good friends there – I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else because I learn new things, we have lots of fun and I feel safe there.”
Tom was struggling to cope in his school environment and was showing some challenging behaviour. Our adult transitions worker suggested Westhay and we met with Alison and the team to have a look around. Tom has now been at Westhay’s base at Edgarley for 8 months and absolutely loves it. He is much happier generally and has transformed from a grumpy teenager with challenging behaviour into a happy and healthy young man.
Our largest location, with an orchard, gardens, raised beds, an animal area as well as a kitchen for culinary skills.
Clients learn skills for the next step of supported living by accessing the community, shopping and bus routes.
Based at Godney, The Franks operates at a pace for clients with more complex needs, adapting to their requirements.
A working farm where clients participate in seasonal activities, eg. Looking after sheep at lambing, repairing fences, conservation work to enhance the environment as well as woodcraft . They also have the opportunity to explore the open countryside which is part of the farm, in a safe and managed environment.