Wellbeing Weekend

There are not enough words to capture the magic of our 4-day wellbeing weekend with 121 of our clients and their children!

The sunshine, the woodland, the glamping site, the laughter and even the quiet pauses together… all became part of a journey of healing. For many of our families, time away is rare, and chances to reconnect with nature and with each other are even rarer. For some it was their first or only holiday.

Survivors of domestic abuse often carry invisible wounds – stress, hypervigilance, isolation and exhaustion. But in the safety of community, surrounded by fresh air and gentle nurture, something incredible happens:

  • Children laugh freely.
  • Parents breathe a little deeper.
  • Families rediscover joy in each other’s company.
  • Healing begins, not through words alone, but through shared moments of play, creativity and peace.

Across the weekend, there truly was something for everyone – from sound healing, reiki, somatics and music to crate stacking, high ropes, climbing walls, bowling, campfires (and yummy smores) stained glass, arts and crafts, nature walks and mindfulness boards. Every activity built on confidence, courage and connection.

Families told us this felt like “the best holiday ever” a time to heal, recharge and make memories they never thought possible.

We could not have done it without the love, kindness and generosity of so many: Harmonious Sound Healing, Sounds Like Women, Quigley By Design, Noushka Design Ltd, Circus Scene – your talents brought calm, fun and wonder.

  • @bidfoods – for donating ALL the food for 4 days, nourishing body and soul.
  • Little Reds Woodfired Pizza & our wonderful ice cream van always a huge hit!
  • The Body Shop & Tesco – for pamper pack items and a reminder to every family that they are cared for and worthy of kindness and self care.
  • Wokingham United Charities – for making the magical glamping experience possible, creating a safe and special place to rest, dream and play.

And above all, our extraordinary volunteers – the heart of it all. You set up, decorated, cooked, cleaned, led activities, supported families and gave every ounce of energy to make this weekend unforgettable. You showed what community, compassion, peer support and teamwork truly mean.

For the families who came, thank you for trusting us, embracing it all, and for the hugs, happy tears and heartfelt feedback that remind us why we do this.

This weekend wasn’t just a holiday. It was a chance to reclaim joy, rebuild bonds and feel held by a community that cares. A reminder that after abuse, there can be laughter, peace and brighter chapters ahead.

We carry these memories with us and cannot wait to see you again soon!