Charity Respite Events
Assisting Respite and Reset
Give people the space to breathe, reconnect, and simply be.
Our woodland venue in Hellingly, Sussex offers carefully designed respite experiences for charities supporting vulnerable individuals. Set within a nurturing natural environment, these sessions provide a gentle escape from everyday pressures—creating space for calm, creativity, and quiet achievement.
Using traditional woodland crafts and nature-based activities, we offer inclusive, hands-on experiences that meet people where they are. Participants can explore activities such as wild pottery, breadmaking over the fire, simple basketry, fermentation, and woodland wellbeing practices—all inspired by the slower, more grounded ways of life once common in Sussex’s woodlands.
There is no pressure to perform or achieve. Instead, the focus is on participation, sensory engagement, and shared moments—whether that’s the warmth of a fire, the rhythm of working with natural materials, or the quiet satisfaction of creating something by hand.
We understand the importance of flexibility, patience, and compassion. Sessions can be adapted to suit a wide range of needs, abilities, and group dynamics, ensuring everyone feels safe, supported, and included.
What we offer:
• A peaceful woodland setting that encourages relaxation and emotional reset
• Gentle, guided activities that promote confidence, wellbeing, and connection
• Flexible pacing with time for rest, reflection, and informal interaction
• Bespoke sessions designed in collaboration with your organisation’s needs
Whether you’re supporting individuals experiencing stress, isolation, recovery, or life challenges, our woodland respite days provide a meaningful way to restore energy, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging.
Talk to Francis about creating a restorative woodland experience tailored to your community.
A few words from Alison Cotton
Artist in Residence at Care for the Carers
"During Care for the Carers’ Arts in Nature Project, Francis and Pam provided the most wonderful creative days in nature for groups of adult and young unpaid carers.
For carers, the chance to leave responsibilities behind and relax in the beautiful setting of Wild Weald, whilst having their every need catered for, was priceless. The activities combined historical interest, hands-on crafting, forest bathing, sharing with a friendly group of other carers, and a delicious woodland lunch.
Francis and Pam have combined their skills and expertise with research, to design accessible, hassle-free activities. Participants learned about traditional methods and had a chance to be creative, with no judgement or pressure attached. In addition they were kind and generous, giving carers the sense of being cared for.
One carer’s feedback:
"It was so good to forget everything that was going on in our lives and absorb ourselves in a fabulous atmosphere, have a superb lunch, and feel renewed and so very thankful."
