Earlier this summer, we visited Swansea Community Farm in Fforestfach, Swansea. Home to a wide range of animals, we were delighted to have the opportunity to meet the newest residents, a group of baby goats. During our visit, we met the team at Wales’ only city farm and talked about what being a Living Wage Employer means them – how it’s not just about pay, but about dignity, fairness, and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.
About Swansea Community Farm
Swansea Community Farm is a community-led, award-winning charity set across 3.5 acres in Fforestfach, Swansea. It is Wales’ only city farm and is home to a range of animals, allotments, wildlife areas and bee hives, the Farm is more than just a green space. It’s a mental health and wellbeing hub, helping people transform their lives through connection with nature, animals and each other. By building skills, producing local food and creating a strong sense of belonging, Swansea Community Farm plays a vital role in caring for both people and the environment.
Why did your organisation decide to become a Living Wage Employer?
As a community farm, becoming a Living Wage Employer felt like a natural extension of our values of fairness, dignity, and sustainability. Our decision was shaped by seeing the impact of low pay on wellbeing, particularly in our local community, and by conversations with our team about the importance of feeling valued. Paying the real Living Wage supports our wider ethical and sustainability goals by promoting social fairness, strengthening our community, and ensuring our workplace is inclusive and supportive for everyone.
What impact have you seen on your employees since paying the real Living Wage?
Since becoming a Living Wage Employer, we’ve seen a positive impact on our team with employees feeling more valued and secure in their roles. Paying the real Living Wage has contributed to a more stable, productive, and positive working environment at the farm.
What business benefits have you experienced since becoming a Living Wage Employer?
It has strengthened our organisational reputation. Many funders and commissioning bodies increasingly prioritise organisations with strong employment practices. It reinforces our credibility and shows that we’re serious about long-term impact – not just for our service users, but also for the people who deliver those services. Funders can be confident that their investment supports an ethical, forward-thinking organisation that values people and practices what it preaches.
Would you encourage other employers to become accredited and why?
Yes, absolutely. Becoming accredited shows you’re committed to fairness and valuing your staff. It boosts morale, improves retention, enhances your reputation, and helps attract funding and partnerships. It’s good for people and good for business.
You can find out more about Swansea Community Farm by visiting their website: www.swanseacommunityfarm.org.uk
