New Hedgerows Take Root: 105 native broadleaf saplings donated by the Woodland Trust

There’s been a wonderful burst of activity at the farm recently, where the adults with learning disabilities we support have been planting the first of many new saplings along one of our field boundaries. The old fencing in this area had begun to deteriorate, so its removal has become the starting point for an inspiring long-term project to replace hazardous fencing with natural, wildlife-friendly barriers.

At Diagrama Community Services, we’re passionate about creating environments that are not only safe, but also enriching for people and wildlife alike. This project is a perfect example of that commitment in action. Instead of installing more traditional fencing, we’re choosing to plant living hedgerows and create dead hedges - natural solutions that protect animals, boost biodiversity, and form important wildlife corridors.

These living boundaries offer so much more than a simple physical barrier. They provide shelter for livestock, food and nesting spots for birds, and vital routes for insects and small mammals. Over time, they will grow into thriving habitats that support the health of the land and enhance the wellbeing of everyone who lives, works, and visits Duckyls Farm.

A Community Effort

One of the most rewarding parts of this project has been the hands-on involvement from the people who attend our Day Opportunities programme. Cameron, Jason, and Caspian helped mark out the planting area and prepare the ground, while Ellie took joy in monitoring each stage of progress. Their enthusiasm and teamwork brought real energy to the day and set the tone for what will be an ongoing community-led effort.

Support from the Woodland Trust

We are extremely grateful to the Woodland Trust’s Free Trees for Schools and Communities scheme for making this possible. Steve Shill, Senior Project Lead at the Woodland Trust, shared his excitement about the partnership, saying:

“The Woodland Trust’s Free Trees for Schools and Communities scheme was delighted to support the Diagrama Foundation with their tree planting ambitions. The planting of 105 native broadleaf trees at Duckyls Farm will have a hugely positive impact on people and nature for years to come.”

The saplings - downy birch, hazel, holly, and goat willow - are all native broadleaf species that play a vital role in the UK’s ecosystems. As their leaves fall and decompose each year, they enrich the soil and help create diverse habitats for fungi, insects, and other wildlife.

Looking Ahead

For our Care Farm and Community Manager, Keri Strugnell, the significance of this project goes far beyond landscape improvement. As she explains:

“This generous gift from the Woodland Trust means a great deal to everyone at Duckyls Farm. The new trees enhance our landscape and offer the people we support the chance to play an active role in restoring and caring for our environment. Watching these hedgerows grow will mirror the growth we see every day within our community.”

This tree-planting effort marks just one part of Diagrama’s wider commitment to nature-based activities, sustainability, and meaningful involvement for the people we support. As the saplings take root and the hedgerows begin to take shape, we’re excited to watch both our environment and our community flourish side by side.