Teams from across The Billington Group, including colleagues from Carr’s Billington and English Provender Company (EPC) stepped away from their day-to-day roles in February to take part in a “Wild at Work” volunteering day at Ynys Hywel Farm, near Newport, Wales.
Set within the Welsh countryside, Ynys Hywel Farm is more than a working farm. It is a thriving community hub where nature, education and wellbeing come together. The site provides hands-on learning experiences for corporate organisations and local authorities, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the land, engage with animals and gain a deeper understanding of how food is produced.
This initiative is supported by The Parent Network LTD Caerphilly, the chosen charity of EPC Newport, through the Billington Foundation and closely aligns with the Group’s Growing for the Future programme, which focuses on sustainability, community engagement and responsible food production.
Video & Photography captured & edited by Lynn Candlish, Carr’s Billington Marketing Operations Manager
Supporting Sustainable Farming
The Group’s connection with Ynys Hywel Farm extends beyond volunteering. Over the past year, Carr’s Billington has supported the farm’s feeding requirements, supplying feed from its mills for ducks, chickens, birds and a flock of Welsh Mountain ewes. This partnership highlights how agricultural businesses within the Group can play a meaningful role in supporting local farms, promoting animal welfare and contributing to more sustainable food systems.
Meeting the Team Behind the Farm
On arrival, colleagues were warmly welcomed by Dai Hopkins, Farm Ranger, and Teresa Heal, Community Forum Worker. Their passion for the farm and its purpose was clear from the outset. Through their work, Ynys Hywel Farm continues to provide an inclusive space where people of all backgrounds can connect with nature, develop new skills and contribute to environmental conservation.
Teamwork in Action
Equipped with gloves, tools and plenty of enthusiasm, the team set to work thinning a densely planted woodland area. By reducing overcrowding among trees, more light can reach the forest floor, encouraging the growth of shrubs and wildflowers. This process plays a vital role in supporting biodiversity, creating healthier habitats for wildlife, insects and plant life.
A Day That Made a Difference
The “Wild at Work” day was about more than the physical task at hand. It brought together colleagues from across the Group, reinforcing the connection between their work, environmental stewardship and community impact. In just one day, the team completed work that would otherwise have taken several days, a tangible reminder of the impact that can be achieved through collaboration. By the end of the day, colleagues left tired but proud, having made a meaningful contribution to a project that reflects the values at the heart of the Billington Group.
Growing for the Future
Initiatives like this demonstrate how The Billington Group continues to support communities, champion sustainability and play an active role in protecting the environment for future generations.