Tilly is autistic, severely dyslexic and has Irlen syndrome. She often feels overwhelmed by sensory things, such as busy environments, meeting new people and crowded places. She struggles to read people and understand social cues, which makes her anxious in social settings. Small in-teractions can trigger overwhelming thoughts and feelings, which consume Tilly’s mind for prolonged and debilitating periods. This results in her retreating to safe places and people, and not being able to attend school or anything else – a state which could be referred to as ‘autistic burnout.’
Tilly first came to the farm in Summer 2023 for the Summer Shepherding School, initially she sat in tears in the car, too anxious to get out. After some time watching the other young people, with support from her Mum, she was able to join in. Tilly then came every week, building in confidence and independence – she returned again at Easter for lambing and again in the Summer that followed.
Tilly then started coming to the farm every Wednesday as part of a small group of neuro-diverse young people, where she confidently worked with the cows and sheep and enjoyed learning new skills, and built friendships which she continued to develop outside of the farm setting.
She appreciated that at the farm, she felt safe, valued and accepted for who she is. She enjoyed feeling like she is contributing to the farm, as a valued member of a team member.
Being physically active in the outdoors, helped Tilly to regulate her emotions and gives her a break from the thoughts consuming her mind. It has gave Tilly the confidence to pursue her interests in working with animals in the future.
In Autumn 2025, Tilly was given a small flock of Ryeland and Jacob sheep, along with access to four acres of land. She now takes great pride in caring for her own animals and is eagerly preparing for her first lambing season in Spring 2026. She continues to attend Lowberdale for a group day each week, where she builds on her skills, knowledge, and confidence with the support of farm staff, volunteers, and the company of her friends, as reflected in her regular catch ups and ‘Individual Support Plan’. One afternoon a week, Tilly also supports a young man with severe learning difficulties in her new role as a ‘young leader.’ It is wonderful to see her enjoying her developing skills and now confidently helping others to grow theirs.
