Duckyls Farm, near East Grinstead, has been named a finalist for a BBC Make a Difference Award in the Environment category. The recognition comes after the 100-acre site, managed by Diagrama Foundation, was transformed from a neglected and unsafe area into a thriving, inclusive space where adults with a learning disability actively care for the land and animals.
A Remarkable Transformation in Just Over a Year
When Diagrama Community Services took over the farm, it had been unmanaged for decades. Blocked ditches caused flooding, fences were broken, buildings were rundown, and the site was littered with old tyres, waste, and unused equipment. Woodland areas had become unsafe due to unmanaged trees and ash dieback, making the farm unsuitable for people to learn, work, or enjoy the outdoors safely.
Today, the 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, offering opportunities to learn practical life skills. The farm now houses alpacas, horses, goats, chickens, and rabbits, with the people attending the service actively involved in their daily care.
People at the Heart of the Farm's Development
Individuals supported by the service 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 being incorporated into long-term plans, creating a sustainable environment that benefits both people and nature.
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."
Awards Ceremony and How to Support
The winner will be announced at the BBC Make a Difference Awards ceremony on September 22 at The Chequer Mead Theatre in East Grinstead. McGuire added: "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."
For more information about Community Services at Duckyls Farm, visit www.diagramacommunity.org.uk. To support the work, purchases can be made from their Amazon Wishlist at linktr.ee/diagramaamazonwishlist. Every contribution, big or small, helps enhance their daily lives.
