WWOOFing is open to everyone, provided that hosts respect the principles of WWOOFing and WWOOFers honor their commitments. We are also committed to fighting discrimination within the movement.
However, WWOOFing can also require a certain physical and emotional engagement depending on the location, times of the year and activities. Hosts may not be aware of the barriers that exist for a WWOOFer, or know how accessible their farm already is. For their part, WWOOFers can be reluctant to talk about their disability for fear of not finding a farm.
Advice for WWOOFers with disabilities:
If you have health issues, whether physical or psychological, it is important to consider them before committing to a stay:
- Evaluate your ability to participate in the tasks offered (gardening, manual activities, community life, pace of life).
- Inform your host about your particular needs directly in your visit request. This allows the hosts to adapt the conditions or advise you to turn to other hosts.
- Remember to bring any specific medications or equipment you might need.
- Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have doubts about your ability to complete a stay.
Advice for hosts with disabilities:
If you have health issues, whether physical or psychological, hosting a WWOOFer may require some organization:
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Be clear about your limits, how you operate, and your needs, and communicate them to WWOOFers.
Share in your profile if you're able to provide specialized support for WWOOFers with disabilities, to make it easier to find you. - Offer an appropriate framework if necessary (for example: only open your calendar when you are ready to host).
- In complex situations, don’t hesitate to contact the local WWOOF team for support or advice.
WWOOF is grateful for every member that works with us to make WWOOF an inclusive, open and welcoming place.