anyone intersted in starting such a project down here? We have a huge alcohol and drug problem. Anyone know of any land? I have thought this is the answer for some time. In Italy there is a similar project in an old monastery which is live-in, and they run a laid back hotel/restaurant too. It works and everyone raves about the food which is all home grown.
I've been chewing on this idea for some years too!
I currently work on a project which supports homeless people back into work - so have some experience in working with people with complex problems. We are also part of a larger project that supports Social Enterprise and Corporate Social Responsibility. I have in the past volunteered on an allotment project run by the Medical Foundation For Victims of Torture in London and have had a bash at allotmenting myself - although with limited knowledge. Watching the Monty Project has spurred my to book up for Biodynamic training with a view to using it to assist a project like this.
It may be worth approaching the Councils about land and/or allotments. Do you know about Care Co-ops Community Farm up at Stanmer Park - perhaps there is land available there.
I would be interested in exploring this further. Let me know your thoughts.