WWOOF advocates for a life without barriers, including educational experiences in agriculture. WWOOF recognizes that some hosts are better suited to providing specialized support for some disabilities. A WWOOFer who has a disability or a special need should communicate this to a host farm directly in their visit request. This could include any physical limitations that impact the type of activities they can be involved in on the farm, any medications they take regularly, or if they have a mental illness that requires special conditions or treatment. A host can then assess their farm's offerings to determine with the WWOOFer if their site and educational opportunities are a good fit for both parties.
Hosts may not be aware of the barriers that exist for a WWOOFer, or know how accessible their farm already is. Many host farms are already equipped to provide specialized opportunities, like tasks that can be done while seated at a table, having a quiet room available for a WWOOFer, or providing accommodations that are on a single level without stairs, for example.
If you're a host, please share in your profile if you're able to provide specialized support for WWOOFers with disabilities, to make it easier to find you.
Open conversations with WWOOFers about their needs can facilitate a positive experience for everyone involved in the visit. WWOOF is grateful for every member that works with us to make WWOOF an inclusive, open and welcoming place.