Nearly twice as many care farms as four years ago

In 2007, there were more than 600 farms in the Netherlands where people in need of help and care can find a suitable way to spend the day or participate in farming activities. The number of care farms grew by two thirds within the space of four years. In 2003, there were 372 care farms in the Netherlands, but the demand for tailor-made care is rising continually. Farmers are also looking for alternative ways to secure their income.

The number of farmers providing care to former alcohol and drug addicts, people with mental disabilities, elderly and other people in need of care is growing. Most care farm clients are looking after plants and/or animals during the day, but live elsewhere. Living on a care farm is relatively rare. Working on a care farm can also facilitate finding regular paid employment.

Types of care offered by care farms