Kathryn Wilkin

Farm Operations Manager

My diverse background spans animal care, social care, and management, bringing together a range of skills and experiences that I am excited to contribute to my role as Farm Operations Manager at Depden Care Farm.

. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Animal Management, a Level 2 Diploma in Mental Health and Adult Social Care and a Foundation Degree in Business and Management, alongside extensive experience in management and hospitality. Through my travels and professional experiences, I have worked with animals and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds across several countries. These opportunities have included supporting the conservation and population growth of endangered green sea turtles in The Gambia, as well as working in Canada’s youth justice system, where I encouraged children and young adults to engage in outdoor learning.

My hospitality background has strengthened my ability to build rapport with people from diverse backgrounds, a skill I found particularly valuable while working within the Criminal Justice Liaison Service. In this role, I contributed to efforts to reduce reoffending rates among both adults and young people, supporting individuals facing a variety of complex challenges.

In 2025, I focused my thesis on the potential use of alpacas in animal-assisted therapy, an emerging area of interest compared with the more established use of horses and dogs in therapeutic settings. My research further strengthened my interest in how animals can support emotional wellbeing, personal development and positive outcomes for individuals. I am excited to bring my combined experience in animal management, social care, and leadership to Depden Care Farms. I look forward to becoming an active member of the team, supporting and engaging farm helpers, and helping individuals develop valuable life skills, build confidence, and improve their mental health and overall wellbeing through meaningful interactions with animals and the farm environment

Kathryn Wilkin
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