WWOOFing

Hibilly_sp 

This is new to me and sounds really interesting. Could you tell us a bit more about it.?

Hi Lonehare12, 

It's just an organisation that you can become a member of. Then you have a list of "host" farms and contact numbers, and you have to get in touch with any ones you fancy. If they sound interesting you can then arrange a stay of from a weekend to much longer. You are supplied food and accommodation in return for 4 or 5 hrs work a day with weekends or equivalent off. Accomodation is often separate, typically in a mobile home, but could be a room in a farmhouse 

There are several things that may or may not be difficult about the process:

You have to make contact with and meet new people.Phone calls were always difficult for me but I managed it.

You are travelling to an unknown environment, which may or may not meet your sensory needs. However, it is not a contract and you can leave at anytime.

Things I liked about it:

You get to travel very cheaply and can stay in beautiful parts of the country, or even the world. This was always important to me.

The arrangement is informal, so there is not the stress of being employed. I preferred the arrangement, it gave me a feeling of being needed and belonging with the social aspects being something that I could more or less manage. I was always able to take time on my own when I needed it 

You can meet fellow travellers from all walks if life, along with their life experiences.

Most hosts I met were really nice. A very few were not so nice, and on the verge of being exploitative. It happens. If the balance isn't right for you, you can vote with your feet.

You can learn or develop practical skills, often in a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. You can even use and offer skills you already may have, such as creative work or just problem solving.

I did it for years. Met lifelong friends on the way. Developed enough skills to manage a farm. Came out of the city and found the environment that suited me most. Also used it for respite when I was a carer for my mum.

Hope that was helpful.

Google WWOOF UK for more info.

Thanks so much for your reply. I’ve downloaded the app. It looks wonderful. I realise that you have to be quite brave to do this, so good for you especially if it helps enhance your wellbeing.

Thanks so much for your reply. I’ve downloaded the app. It looks wonderful. I realise that you have to be quite brave to do this, so good for you especially if it helps enhance your wellbeing.