Farmwood M&E Services Ltd – changing the lives of local families

A pioneering Sittingbourne business is literally changing the lives of local families thanks to its passion for innovation.

When programme makers from the popular TV show DIY SOS: The Big Build appealed to Kent companies to help the Ratcliffe family from the Isle of Sheppey, Farmwood M&E Services Ltd, leapt at the challenge.

Thanks to their investment in new technology, the award-winning ventilation experts had just the solution to help the six-strong family, whose son Curly was prone to life-threatening chest infections in their cramped bungalow due to cerebral palsy.

In one of the show’s most ambitious projects, a new five-bedroom house was built for the Ratcliffe’s in nine days, which included a bespoke ventilation and air quality monitoring system supplied and installed by Farmwood.

Nathan said: “You sit at home on your sofa watching these SOS shows and think how amazing it would be to get involved and then just go about your daily life. Having the opportunity to support a DIY SOS locally was an exciting opportunity.”

Since the build, Curly’s health has improved immeasurably: “Before the Big Build, Curly was in hospital several times a year with pneumonia. Since our SOS, Curly has only returned to hospital once.”

Staff at Farmwood have subsequently gifted £4000 to the family following a fundraiser at Sheerness Golf Club.

“Once you do something like this, the feeling of altruism is incredible and makes you want to do more,” said Nathan.

The family-run enterprise, which won a prestigious national award last year after beating off competition from global companies, attribute their success not only to technology, but also high service standards which have gained them new contracts and fuelled their growth.

Farmwood’s commitment to innovation is also changing the face of the industry and setting new standards for cleaner air.

He said: “In 2020, we have set out to improve the wellbeing of schools and colleges in our local area and have already met with Swale Council to start the debate on air quality.”

Some of Farmwood’s most cutting-edge products include air purifiers with patented technology which claims to kill airborne pathogens and bacteria, as well as probiotic atomisers and cleaning products.

Nathan explained: “Probiotics are nature’s nanotechnology; not only do they clean better and last longer, they actually boost our immune systems and are 100% organic.” 

He added: “Our standards are very high, and profit is obviously important, but our drive to promote wellbeing and good air quality gives us a great sense of karma too.”

Farmwood (www.farmwood.co.uk) is based at St George’s Business Park, Castle Road, Sittingbourne, ME10 3TB (www.capitalspace.co.uk; 01795 432605), which provides high quality offices, workshops and studios to hire on simple, flexible, monthly licences.

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