Care Farming: When farms become places of care
A new concept is gaining importance in Swiss agriculture: so-called "care farming." In this model, farmers open their farms to provide a place for people in need of care. This approach combines daily work on the farm with social services, thereby creating a new source of income for the businesses.
The principle of care farming is already widespread and well-established in other European countries. In Switzerland, more and more farming families are now discovering the potential of this idea. Working with animals, getting exercise in the fresh air, and being involved in the daily routine of the farm can significantly improve the well-being of people with physical or mental disabilities.
For the farmers, the concept involves additional responsibility, but also a meaningful addition to their daily work. For example, they provide structured daily activities for seniors, people with disabilities, or young people who require support. The farm thus becomes a place of encounter where social integration and agricultural production go hand in hand.
This development shows that the role of Swiss farmers is changing. They are no longer just producing food, but are increasingly taking on social tasks within society. Experts see this trend as a sustainable solution to secure the existence of smaller farms while simultaneously making an important contribution to social cohesion in the regions.