Testimonials
Testimonials
Participant
“The whole experience was one of peace, rest, reflection, togetherness and bonding. The activities were great for both adults and children, they were so enjoyable. The accommodation was spacious and there was plenty of opportunities to retreat, relax, reflect and admire the beautiful scenery.
Why Give will gives families that are having issues within their family dynamics or may not have the means to get away, the ability to form and strengthen bonds through the activities and sessions that will take place. It will also allow them to reflect on how they could improve on how they interact with each other whilst having fun.”
July 2024
Participant
“I experienced a safe space, to process, receive, laugh and be present with everyone else who came. I went home feeling full and ready to step back into the "real" world bold, courageous, kind and ready.
I saw how quickly the children bonded together, the quality of games and activities that were provided for them. I witnessed the conversations that transpired between the adults and the healing that must have brought to them. So I can only imagine, what more time for the sessions, activities etc would do for them!”
July 2024
Participant
“I experienced peace, listening to testimonies, great food and fun activities such as farming which I’ve never done before. This was a great experience for me as I’ve never stayed in the countryside before and spending it with family and friends made the experience an enjoyable one that I’ll never forget.
A retreat like this gives children and parents the freedom to explore a more peaceful and fun environment which might be different to their day to day environment. You get to partake in different activities which brings togetherness, fellowship and an understanding of the different personalities and qualities that each individual has.”
July 2024
Participant
“I really RETREATED!! I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed and calm. It was wonderful. I have never been on a retreat and it was a gorgeous first experience. It felt much longer than it actually was, we were very well fed, and there was a real beautiful flow to the whole time we were there. I didn’t want to leave the group of people I’d been with! I remember it so fondly and feel I developed such deeper connections with some people.
It's life changing. I believe that every person that goes to the Why Give retreats will be changed forever. It is essential for both parents and children to feel seen and know they are safe to explore healing - Why Give is the perfect place for it.”
July 2024
Participant
“I experienced a real peace and comfort when I was at the retreat. It was an incredibly wholesome experience. A lot of fun, empowering conversations and togetherness was experienced alongside some incredible food and reflections. Couldn’t be more grateful for having an environment to breathe, reflect and be away from the hustle and bustle of London.
Retreats are rare, not only have I not been to many retreats, I haven’t heard about many retreats for families so this is the perfect environment to connect with others, experience a change of scenery and take a breather from the demands of daily life.”
July 2024
Participant
“I was blown away by the high level hospitality and family-like atmosphere which I believe will be transformative for young people who've never experienced it. The food was delicious and abundant in what was provided. Thank you!
Arriving at our bedroom with that gorgeous cookie and letter on the bed was the icing of the welcome wagon! Truly special and thoughtful, thank you!
The Why Give UK vision session was really powerful and helpful for me to learn where the needs are and why this intervention is required in the area. Whilst exploring the mansion and marrying that with the vision - I was able to picture young people and their families in every part of the house. It felt like a safe space but also allowed for opportunities of fun, exploration and being able to be child-like again.
The personalised books for the adults and children were so professional, holistic and captured the essence of Why Give UK in a really simple and beautiful way.
The journalling session that followed the vision time was really impactful for me personally. Being away from London and allowing myself to slow down and reflect on life raised many things to the surface in the sanctuary of the retreat. I look forward to unpacking these with those I do life with.
The Self Image session was raw, vulnerable and eye-opening to the issues raised about body image, self-worth and healing. I can envision sessions like this being most triggering but also cathartic for those who attend the retreats and may leave feeling like they're not alone in that area/struggle. Stories are powerful! I loved this session and I'm excited for more talks like these in the future.
The animal feeding, access to the local park/ playground, communal TV room with games and large garden just outside (for outdoor games) all added to the overall experience of the retreat and will surely provide respite for those who stay at this venue away from city life.
Having the younger children around really added to the sense of family and belonging. It felt like we could look out for one another and just be.
Overall - I had a wonderful time. I walked away more equipped than I expected. I left feeling peaceful and like I belonged. I'm really excited for future Why Give UK retreats! Thank you to everyone to made it so special.
July 2024