Dale Farm Volunteer

75. Dave Nash

When Dave had a traffic accident aged 20 and broke his back he went to Dale Farm, an organic farm that provides a day service for adults with disabilities or mental health issues to learn life skills, to volunteer as part of his rehabilitation. Dave was so moved by the way the farm changed his life he vowed to give the same experience to others.

Sixteen years later Dave has given thousands of hours of time for free, supporting the hundreds of adults who attend the centre and helping them manage the farm as a member of the Dale Farm Committee. With his background in horticulture he uses his knowledge to educate groups of adults about organic farming and in doing so builds their confidence and social skills.

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

“When Dave needed support sixteen years ago Dale Farm day centre was there for him. In return he has been a tireless supporter volunteering over 1000 hours to help the centre go from strength to strength, passing on vital life skills to adults with disabilities and mental health issues.

“I’m hugely impressed with Dave’s dedication to Dale Farm day centre, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. I‘m delighted to name him the UK’s 75th Point of Light.”

Dave said:

“Dale farm provides an invaluable service within the Wirral area and I am proud to be part of the team. It’s a huge honour to be recognised as an exceptional volunteer and I hope to continue to offer support to the farm for many years to come … Thank you.”

Colin Smith, Deputy Manager Dale Farm said:

“I am really pleased to hear that Dave will be receiving a point of light award; Dave is an incredibly nice guy, who is totally committed to Dale Farm and all the people who are involved in our project. We have 40 plus volunteers at Dale Farm all who bring differing skills and value to the project, Dave is a natural leader, and his ability to share his knowledge, skills and bring out the best in others has been the key to his and other people’s success at Dale Farm.”