The Shadow Home Secretary Andy Burnham was left feeling humbled and inspired by his visit to Rhubarb Farm, Langwith.

The MP toured the farm to see first-hand how the social enterprise works with ex-offenders and prisoners on its training and rehabilitation courses.

Mr Burnham said: “Rhubarb Farm is a credit to the staff and volunteers who work so tirelessly to help ex-offenders, drug and alcohol misusers; people with mental ill health or learning disabilities; and teenagers struggling with behaviour problems, to increase their self-esteem, improve their lives and make a positive contribution to their community.

“It was a humbling and inspiring experience.”

Mr Burnham was invited to the farm by Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Derbyshire Hardyal Dhindsa.
The commissioner’s office has been supportive of the farm, providing grants to support its work with ex-offenders and prisoners.

It believes the farm is one of few projects in the county having a positive impact on reducing re-offending.
Jennie Street, managing director of the farm, said: “We are proud of the unique work that we do here with ex-offenders and prisoners and take delight in explaining the positive impact of our agricultural training projects.”

Michael Ellis, a work placement gardener at the farm, is pictured with Hardyal Dhindsa, Jennie Street and Andy Burham.