Brandon burgled – appeal for help

We're appealing for help after equipment – including power tools, garden tools and lawnmowers – as well as money raised from selling Christmas trees and logs, were stolen from our social enterprise, Elm Tree Farm, on 7-8 December.

Around 80 people with learning disabilities and autism work at the care farm located in Stapleton, Bristol. The farm provides opportunities for adults to gain vocational skills and employment training, and includes a wood workshop and a grounds maintenance and gardening service.

As well as the equipment and cash, thieves stole the safe and our van, and caused damage.

Brandon Trust Chief Executive Sue Porto said: "We are shocked, sickened and dismayed to have been targeted like this. Elm Tree Farm offers vital opportunities for individuals to learn work skills and have a paid job, something which far too few people with a learning disability have access to. Coming to the farm also has an invaluable impact on people in terms of enabling them to build confidence and make friends.

"A crime like this is utterly devasting for everyone who benefits from the work we do here. As well as appealing for any information which could help the police, we would also like to reach out to any businesses that could kindly donate equipment and tools so we can get back on our feet as soon as possible. Elm Tree Farm has lost almost everything, so any help will be greatly appreciated by us all."

Can you help?

If you can offer any donations or loans of equipment or tools, please email us: info@brandontrust.org

Alternatively, you can make a donation directly to Elm Tree Farm on their website.