Our story so far…
Our dream became a reality when we realised there was a huge need for help and support in West Oxfordshire for people with learning difficulties and mental health issues.
Abberley Farm has teamed up with Big Fish Project and enabled us to accept referrals and cement our vision. We would like to say a huge thank you to Abberley Farm.
Here are some of the things we have achieved.
Rebuilding the workshop: from start to finish
Over the past few months, we’ve been quietly rebuilding our workshop thanks to a grant from the Alescot Village Association.
It was a space we relied on, but one that had grown tired. It wasn’t insulated, it wasn’t waterproof, and as the seasons changed it became clear it needed proper attention if it was going to work for us year‑round.
From this to this
The starting point
Before any improvements could begin, we had to take everything out and really look at what we were working with. Tools were moved, materials cleared, and the workshop stripped back enough for us to see where the problems were. Drafts, gaps and cold spots that had slowly crept in over time were suddenly obvious.
This stage wasn’t dramatic, but it mattered. It set the tone for everything that followed.
The messy middle
Once work began, progress came in small, practical steps. Parts of the original structure were carefully adjusted so insulation could fit properly. Walls and ceiling were insulated, boards went back up, and the space slowly started to change.
This was the longest part of the process. There were muddy boots, cold days, measuring twice, adjusting, repainting, and moments where it felt like very little was changing at all. But piece by piece, the workshop became warmer, quieter and more contained.
As part of the rebuild, everyone who helped left their handprint above the door. It’s a small detail, but an important one. A reminder that this space was shaped by many hands, not just materials.
A space in use
As the structure came back together, the workshop began to be used again. It held people, tools, conversations, laughter and shared moments. Seeing the space working, even before every final detail was complete, reminded us why we were doing this in the first place.
Finished, and ready
Now, the workshop is finished.
It’s warm, dry and bright. It’s practical, welcoming and ready for everyday use. Most importantly, it’s a space that works.
This rebuild took time, patience and a lot of shared effort. We’re incredibly proud of the finished workshop and grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing it together.
We’re excited to see what this space holds next.
Big Fish Project Wins Start-Up of the Year at Enterprise Oxfordshire Awards 2025
We’re absolutely thrilled to share that Big Fish Project has been named the Winner of Start-Up of the Year at the Enterprise Oxfordshire Marketplace & Celebration 2025, held at Oxford Town Hall on 18th September.
The award recognises new businesses that are making an impact in Oxfordshire — and we couldn’t be more proud that our therapeutic farm has been recognised in this way.
For us, this isn’t just about starting a business. It’s about creating a safe, inspiring space where children, young people, and families can connect with animals, the land, and each other. Winning this award is a huge encouragement to keep growing and developing the project so even more people can benefit.
We want to say a massive thank you to Enterprise Oxfordshire for their support, to the judges for believing in what we’re building, and most of all to everyone who has joined us on the journey so far — volunteers, families, schools, community partners, and of course everyone who makes Big Fish what it is.
This award belongs to all of you.
Got on BBC Radio Oxford and made it in Oxford Mail and front page of the Witney Gazette
We were thrilled to receive a lovely write-up in the Oxford Mail, featuring some fantastic photos from our Meet and Greet day just before our official opening. To our surprise, we also made it onto the front page of the Witney Gazette—something we only found out through friends!
Our journey has come a long way. The first time we were interviewed on BBC Radio Oxford, we didn’t even have any land! It was more of a plea to farmers—a chance to share our vision and hope that someone would see the potential in what we wanted to create. We knew it was a long shot, but we never gave up.
During our second interview, and we were overjoyed to share the incredible news that Lewis and Mandy from Abberley Farm not only understood our vision but fully supported and encouraged us every step of the way. Their generosity and belief in Big Fish made everything possible.
The third interview was during a session with attendees. It was lovely having Sophie join us on the farm where she interviewed some of the students, their TA, Mandy, Lewis, Andrew and Tarnia. Not everyone made it onto the radio edit, but that was understandable given the number of people she managed to speak to!
Our latest appearance was to inform people of our Open Day. Once again, Andrew and Tarnia were lucky enough to join Adam in the studio to tell everyone what we have been up to.
A huge thank you to BBC Radio Oxford for giving us the opportunity to share our story—first as a hopeful dream and now as a thriving reality! We’re excited to keep them, and all of you, updated on the fantastic progress Big Fish continues to make.
Helping where we can.
We are always happy to tackle any job around the farm that needs doing. Our wonderful volunteers of all ages enable us to fix wheelbarrows, re-erect fencing, build polytunnels, and upgrade workshops. We love what we do, and know it isn’t possible without each and every one of you.
