Safe Haven Petting farm in the Dengie has teamed up with local charity Maldon and District Community Voluntary Service to offer new outdoor volunteering opportunities at the farm. 

The rescue centre was set up in February 2022 as a community-focused sister site to the established and successful Maldon Promenade Zoo.

It focuses on providing quality care for animals that have been rescued, as well as those who need additional attention.

The petting farm is now looking to reach out to the community and offer volunteering opportunities in and around the site.

Following a small grant from the Maldon District Council Livewell Scheme, individuals are invited to apply as volunteers to take on activities on the site, to make it more attractive to visitors and maintain the animal enclosures.

Volunteer work parties will be set up, initially on a monthly basis, to undertake tasks such as laying bark, gardening and planting activities and simple carpentry. Support and equipment will be provided and there will also be time to spend with the rescue animals,

James and Craig Williams owners of the Safe Haven Petting Farm said "We are dedicated to looking after the animals in our care but equally recognise the positive benefits for individuals in being around animals and working in an outdoor space.

"By teaming up with the CVS we hope this is the start of using the site to support health and wellbeing of our local community as well as caring for animals."

To find out more or to apply to volunteer contact Justine Page at Maldon and District CVS on 01621 851891 or email [email protected]