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Cheryl Reeves, founder of Agri-cation CIC, was recognised with the Diversification (Small to Medium) of the Year award at the British Farming Awards 2024 for her outstanding efforts in using agriculture to facilitate social change. Her community-focused initiative bridges the gap between urban and rural lifestyles, providing opportunities for education, employment and rehabilitation through hands-on farming experiences.Ìý

Inclusivity and engagement

At the heart of Agri-cation CIC is a commitment to inclusivity and engagement. Cheryl and her team run weekly farm-based sessions, bringing together volunteers and participants from diverse backgrounds to foster a vibrant community hub. By collaborating with organisations such as Woody's Lodge and the North Wales Wildlife Trust, they provide support for military veterans, helping them reconnect with nature and develop new skills. The initiative also promotes environmental education, ensuring that farming plays a key role in raising awareness about conservation and sustainability.Ìý

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One of the biggest challenges Cheryl faces is ensuring accessibility for participants. Many individuals who could benefit from Agri-cation's programmes struggle with transport to the site. To overcome this, she has been actively raising funds for a dedicated minibus, which will allow more people to access the farm and take part in its life-changing activities.Ìý

Tackling unemployment and rehabilitating offenders

Agri-cation also plays a significant role in tackling unemployment in Wrexham. By working with the Department for Work and Pensions, Cheryl has developed tailored programmes to help individuals transition back into the workforce, with a particular focus on those from non-farming backgrounds. The initiative extends its outreach to Berwyn Prison, engaging inmates with agricultural interests and offering them a pathway for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

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The British Farming Awards judges were particularly impressed with this impact, commenting: "Social impact needs a special mention in terms of helping disadvantaged people, rehabilitating offenders and getting individuals into farming who otherwise would not have the opportunity."

Sustainable beef enterprise

Beyond education and social outreach, Cheryl also runs a sustainable beef enterprise, integrating innovative automated calf-rearing systems to improve efficiency. By collaborating with local dairy farmers, she rears 50% of her own beef supply, ensuring high animal welfare standards while contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.Ìý

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Since its inception four years ago, Agri-cation CIC has helped countless individuals build confidence, develop new skills, and pursue careers in agriculture. Upon receiving her award, Cheryl reflected on the significance of the recognition, stating: "It is the recognition that means the most; we work really, really hard as farmers, and this acknowledges the effort we put in."Ìý

Through Agri-cation CIC, Cheryl Reeves is proving that farming is not just about food production, it is a powerful tool for social change, rehabilitation and community building.