Diagrama Foundation's West Sussex care farm for adults with learning disabilities has been recognised in a prestigious award.
Based near East Grinstead, Ducklys Farm BBC Make a Difference Award finalist in the Environment category in the Sussex area. The accolade recognises its remarkable transformation into a thriving, inclusive space where adults with a learning disability are helping to care for and shape the land.
In just over a year, the team at Duckyls Farm transformed the farm from a neglected and unsafe site into a vibrant environment where people can learn, develop practical skills and enjoy the benefits of nature and working with animals.
David McGuire, CEO of Diagrama Foundation, said: “We are incredibly proud of the Duckyls Farm team and delighted that their work has been recognised. They have achieved an extraordinary transformation, turning a neglected and unsafe site into a place where people can learn, develop skills, care for animals and take real pride in their surroundings."
When Diagrama Foundation took on the 100-acre farm and estabilished Community Services, it had been unmanaged for decades. Blocked ditches were causing flooding, fences were broken, buildings were run down, and the site was littered with old tyres, waste and unused equipment. Woodland areas had become unsafe because of unmanaged trees and ash dieback, making the farm unsuitable for people to safely learn, work and enjoy the outdoors.
Today, Duckyls Farm is a very different place. Ditches have been cleared, safe pathways created and buildings renovated into welcoming, practical spaces. A former barn has been transformed into a working classroom with a kitchen, providing opportunities to learn practical life skills.
The farm is also now home to alpacas, horses, goats, chickens and rabbits, with the people attending the service actively involved in their daily care.
People are also helping to grow vegetables, plant trees, maintain the land and contribute to the running and development of the farm. Importantly, the vision for Duckyls Farm is being shaped alongside the people it supports, with individuals having a say in what is grown, which animals they care for and how the farm develops.
Traditional land management practices are also being incorporated into the long-term plans for the farm, helping to create a sustainable environment that benefits both people and nature.
David McGuire continued: “What makes Duckyls particularly special is that the people we support are not simply visitors to the farm; they are actively involved in shaping its future. This recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of their contribution, as well as the dedication and hard work of the whole team. We wish everyone involved the very best of luck at the awards.”
The winner will be announced at the BBC Make a Difference Awards ceremony on 22 September at The Chequer Mead Theatre in East Grinstead.
Photo: Graham Baker Photography