Elspeth Vaughan
Innovator
Campview Farm
Ireland
Social
Farming
Remote rural areas
The innovation journey
Elspeth Vaughan is a Registered General Nurse and Nurse Tutor. Her healthcare background marries well with the focus on Social Farming at ‘Campview Farm’ – striving to create a nurturing environment and improve the lives of diverse individuals in the community. This varied farm enterprise has diversified into Agri-tourism, operating a Fáilte Ireland approved self-catering barn studio accommodation and a glamping site with two Shepherd Huts, overlooking the scenic Erne estuary. The core farm enterprise currently is a mixed operation with dairy cows, beef cattle and sheep.
The farm itself has been in the Vaughan family for five generations but the move to Social Farming and Agri-tourism are recent ventures. Building networks is key to supporting the range of activities ‘Campview Farm’ operates. For example, supporting Social Farming collaboration with various stakeholders (such as the HSE) through Social Farming Ireland is essential. Nurturing relationships also with nearby primary and secondary schools (as well as language schools), is also important. ‘Campview Farm’ promotes environmental awareness, fostering a sense of appreciation for the rich natural heritage of the region.
The innovation impact
Drawing on the holistic qualities of the farm and landscape, ‘Campview Farm’ acknowledges and promotes its natural assets in its Social Farming and Agri-tourism activities. One of the Dunmuckrum Turloughs, the most northern known Turlough in the country, is located on ‘Campview Farm’ and is a Special Area of Conservation. In addition, the farm is located on a European Protection Area of Donegal Bay, the most active area for wintering birds. This could be seen as a limitation on farming activities, but not for ‘Campview Farm’. These natural assets provide a rich resource that attracts visitors to enjoy educational farm tours, and birdwatching and also supports the Social Farming enterprise through a rich appreciation of nature and natural resources.
Underpinned by innovation and creativity, ‘Campview Farm offers unique farm tours. Activities include Llama trekking to the beautiful Erne Estuary and the therapeutic ‘Cuddle a Cow’ experience. As well as tourists, residents of nursing homes, community hospitals and local schools also visit the farm.