Why Jim would be an effective mentor

  • Jim is currently managing director of Clynfyw CIC, a care farm in north Pembrokeshire set up in 2011. At Clynfyw, they operate various innovative and meaningful countryside projects for disabled and vulnerable people, inspiring and supporting them to extend their potential.
  • Previously an organic farmer having run a series of socially-responsible on-farm diversification projects including accessible holidays and ‘green’ weddings and conferences, Jim still uses organic philosophy in all aspects of the enterprise. Environmentally friendly practices are also emphasized with all staff members given appropriate training to raise awareness of environmental issues.
  • As part of his work at Clynfyw, he has helped set up over 20 micro-enterprises and schemes such as community apple juicing service, charcoal making, gardening service, meaning he can help others develop economically viable micro-enterprises and schemes with a focus on social, economic and environmental sustainability.
  • An experienced business man, Jim can provide guidance on business plans and marketing strategies. Having first-hand experience of developing a business from the initial stages to being a robust business capable of tendering for and winning contracts and grants, Jim can provide guidance whether you are starting out or developing your enterprise.
  • Prior to running Clynfyw, Jim worked overseas as a cricket development officer in Kenya where he introduced cricket to the poorer areas around Nairobi. This made him understand some of the challenges facing the developing world and has helped him develop projects at Clynfyw which have a local focus but global impact. Jim describes this role as a life changing experience which opened his eyes to the challenges faced by people around the wider world.
  • Jim’s social and professional network puts him in a good position to help others to make relevant connections in various different areas for their projects and ambitions.
  • Coming from a farming background, Jim has good knowledge of the challenges facing the rural community, including the economic pressures that can have an impact on farmers’ mental health. He is a good position to help others in this area, particularly acknowledging the dangers of taking on unrealistic workloads.
  • Jim has made use of several Farming Connect services over the last 20 years including training courses in diversification, business management, first aid at work, pig keeping and hedge laying to name a few.


Current farm business

  • 300-acre organic farm, 12 acres used for the care farming work
  • 100 acres of woodland used for charcoal making and log round
  • 5-acre organic horticulture plot growing a wide range of seasonal vegetables and fruit including salads, root vegetables, flowers, rhubarb and more
  • Apple juicing scheme run during the Autumn
  • Formerly kept a herd of 10 organic outdoor breeding sows but currently buy in weaners to fatten
  • 50 rehoused ex-battery hens
  • A few sheep for therapeutic purposes rather than for commercial gain
  • Four cottages which were used for holidays (4*WTB), but three are now for people living in supported tenancy and one for respite & family holidays
  • Hot water solar, PV and biomass boilers
  • Team of nearly 50 staff members


Qualifications/ achievements/ experience

  • 2011 - present: Managing Director of Clynfyw Care Farm
  • 2019: Winner of the Best Rural Diversification Project (Wales & Northern Ireland), Rural Business Awards
  • 2019: Runner up for the Best Rural Social Enterprise, Charity or Community Project  Wales & Northern Ireland), Rural Business Awards
  • 2018: Published his book, ‘Care Farming for Beginners’
  • 2017: Green Tourism Gold Award
  • 2017: Mentor, Care Farming UK
  • 2016: Mentor, Renew Cymru
  • 2015: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care Services
  • 2014: Professional Certificate of Merit in Basic Counselling Skills, BSY Group
  • 2013: Pembrokeshire Tourism, Best Access for Disabled Visitors
  • 2013: Pembrokeshire Tourism, Sustainable Tourism
  • 2002: Queens Award for Enterprise (sustainable development)
  • 1998: present: Farmer and General Manager at Clynfyw Countryside Centre
  • 1996:1998: Development Officer, Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association
  • 1994: 1995: Various sports related roles
  • 1994: 1995: Post-graduate Diploma in Leisure Management, Thames Valley University
  • 1993: Summer Camp Counsellor, Camp Oakhurst USA


TOP TIPS FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

“It is important to see ourselves and our projects as part of a larger picture. There is value to be gained through collaboration and working with others as opposed to trying to do everything alone.”

“You’ve really got to want to do it! Otherwise, what’s the point?”

“Don’t try to reinvent the wheel; someone else has already done that. Talk with them, learn from them and adapt their wheel to your purposes.”

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