Meet the animals
Welcome to ‘The Haven’, our mini farm where rabbits, pigs, goats, donkeys, and tortoises live and thrive. Here, you can get to know each of our animal friends, learn about their personalities, and discover the important role they play in our animal care sessions.
Every animal is cared for by people with learning disabilities, who gain confidence, skills, and independence through these sessions. By getting to know them, you’ll see just how much your support helps both the animals and the people who nurture them.
Meet Steve and Percy
They are firm favourites with The Haven team.
The people we support here have built a sense of purpose and connection by designing, creating, and maintaining a safe and secure environment for Steve and Percy.
We are all very protective of our tortoises, and it has been wonderful to see teamwork and commitment grow across the groups.
(Left: Percy, Right: Steve)
Sponsor Steve or Percy
Meet Fruit and Nut
Fruit and Nut are sister Holland Lop rabbits who joined us after their previous family could no longer keep them. Both girls are settling in well and enjoying their new home.
Rabbits often end up in small hutches with little room to move, so we’re creating a space that lets Fruit and Nut run, explore, and behave as naturally as possible.
(Left: Fruit, Right: Nut)
Sponsor Fruit or NutMeet Dotty, Heidi, Kate and William
Dotty is full of energy – she’s a brilliant jumper, quick to pick up new tricks, and wonderfully clever.
Heidi is the leader of the girls and knows exactly what she likes, especially carrots.
Kate is gentle and affectionate, loves a neck rub, and is happiest in friendly human company.
William is sharp and curious, so much so that he’s been known to sneak into the feed shed when no one’s watching.
Sponsor one of our goats
Meet Jack and Alfie
Jack and Alfie are our resident donkeys, each with their own distinct personality.
Jack is mischievous and inquisitive, often spotted picking up buckets or cheekily helping himself to the walkie-talkies in our pockets.
Alfie is more laid back, but never misses the chance to be first at the food. Both love attention, a carrot treat, and gentle walks around the village with the people we support.
Sponsor Jack or AlfieMeet Gertrude and Nettle
Gertrude and Nettle are rare Oxford Sandy and Black pigs who once played a part in bringing their breed back from critically low numbers. Now happily retired, they’ve joined The Haven team and settled in beautifully.
Nettle and Gertrude, like all animals, thrive on routine, giving a reason to structure the day. This skill is transferable into daily life and getting their food prepared and going out to feed them is always rewarded with an enthusiastic greeting.
(Left: Nettle, Right: Gertrude)
Sponsor Gertrude or Nettle