Hello to all our wonderful supporters, volunteers, and friends of Ferne,
It feels remarkable that I am only a few months into my role as CEO because already so much has taken shape. Since April, we have welcomed day visitors back to the sanctuary, launched our partnership with the team behind Perdida’s café, held our first community conversation, and staged several events that have deepened our connection with our supporters and community.
One moment that truly stayed with me came just weeks ago when two birds in one of our aviaries were gently preening each other and sharing food. It was a small, unplanned moment caught on social media, but it spoke volumes about the sense of safety the animals feel here at Ferne, where they can relax and display their natural behaviours.
This summer’s heat has been a challenge for the sanctuary. Prolonged dry conditions have reduced grazing, which means we are likely to face higher hay costs through the winter months. While we are already planning ahead to manage this, it is a reminder of how closely our work is tied to the seasons and how vital it is to be ready for whatever nature brings.
Our work goes beyond providing refuge. Since April, we have successfully rehomed more than 100 animals, each with their own unique story. Every one of our more than 300 residents on our 72 acres deserves care, dignity, and most of all the chance to heal and be themselves.
I am incredibly proud of the people who make this happen every day. Our team is creative, resourceful and resilient, often creating enrichment for the animals from very little. We have grown our driver team to strengthen our collection and delivery service for retail, and while the service remains in high demand, the team continues to go above and beyond to meet needs where possible. We have also welcomed corporate partners who have generously given their time to work on projects across the sanctuary, from improving ponds and enclosures to supporting our Willow Five Freedoms area. Our volunteer fundraisers are going from strength to strength, raising awareness across our local communities, and we have recently opened our eBay hub here at the sanctuary to help boost our retail income.
The months ahead bring challenges, particularly in a difficult economic climate. We are already laying the foundations to grow stronger by continuing to strengthen income, enriching our partnerships, and harnessing the power of our events, visitors, and community support. Through it all, our guiding principle remains the same, every decision must keep our animals and dedicated team at the heart of it.
To our trustees, colleagues, volunteers, supporters, visitors, and everyone who tells our story, thank you. Your belief in us makes all the difference.
