Diplocks Cottages were built in 1936 as a memorial to Caleb Diplock, a wealthy Polegate resident and landowner. They were for the poor and needy living within three miles of the Parish Church.

In 1945 his distant relatives succeeded in contesting his will and the Cottages were put up for sale.

Under the Trusteeship of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), with the generous help of the Bernhard Baron Trust and many other donors, the cottages were purchased and renamed the Bernhard Baron Cottage Homes. They are for anyone in need, of any religion or political opinion, providing this is not made a nuisance to other residents.

The first Residents were elderly evacuees who had been made homeless in the 1939-45 war.

The dining room, sitting room and main corridor were built in 1950 followed by three other corridors and other improvements at intervals since .

The cottages were converted from bed sitting rooms with shared kitchen and toilet/bathroom to self contained cottages, and a continuous programme of improvements has seen new showers and refurbished kitchens.

The rooms in the main building were upgraded. Each now has its own toilet facilities, and most have en-suite showers.

In 2007/08 we had an extension built to one of the wings, together with a new lounge, residents' laundry and assisted bath facilities, to provide more appropriate accommodation for couples in the main building.

We have also improved our reception and office areas, providing an easier and more welcome access area for residents and visitors.