Social Sustainability

Social sustainability has two aspects, our people and our community.

At Rockscape, as well as working toward a more sustainable world we also try to be sympathetic and considerate in the way we operate within the community and we are now looking at projects to give something back.

Education & training

Here at Rockscape we believe in educating as many people as possible to embrace sustainable farming at that starts with the local community.

We run a student placement program with Bishop Burton and Riseholme Colleges to encourage young people into the agricultural and renewable energy industries, providing practical experience coupled with the use of modern technology in an innovative, forward thinking organisation.

We are always keen to learn from others and this was highlighted when we held the 2016 IAgrM Farm Planner Competition which involved universities from across the country visiting our organisation and then carrying out a report of their recommendations in how we could improve in a number of areas. The external views these student provided were interesting and refreshing, making us think outside of the box but at the same time remembering our values.

We host farm walks and site tours to a wide range groups, including young farmers, colleges and schools helping young people understand why our industry is so important to the land, wildlife and environment.

CMRI Uganda

Tim and Rebecca Bletcher and two of their children have been busy helping to renovate two houses in Bombo, Uganda. The sponsorship supports the children through their education at the CMRI run school in Bombo and it also provides them with two nutritious meals a day whilst they attend school. We have also been investigating extending the provision of solar panels to houses in the Bombo area through Rockscape Energy Ltd as there is little in terms of local infrastructure. So far we have been able to fit 6 houses with solar panels allowing the children to do their work in the evening at home without the use of harmful paraffin lamps, listen to the radio and charge their phones.

Horizon Life Training

The emphasis at Horizon Life is about re-educating and restoring people back into the community, equipped with skills to continue on life’s journey and get back into employment again.

Many of its trainees will have a history of crime in some way, shape or form – they will not be employable. Many will never have worked and it is about breaking that mentality and giving them the opportunity to step back into the community.

The trainees attending Horizon will be able to learn skills in agriculture, joinery, welding, bricklaying, IT and catering. These skills will hopefully help them find employment in the future.

Rockscape has supported the charity Horizon Life Training by sponsoring a minibus used in their outreach program which helps people living and working on the streets of Leeds and the surrounding areas.