Our Aim
Dandelions Retreat exists to provide a calm, nature‑held sanctuary for families bereaved by suicide, with particular care for those connected to the armed forces. Our mission is to offer a place where grief is met with dignity, understanding, and gentle support.
Our vision is to create Dandelions Retreat – a calm, nature-held sanctuary designed to support families bereaved by suicide, particularly those with connections to the armed forces. Set within acres of peaceful gardens, wildflower meadows, mature trees and quiet contemplative spaces, we hope to create a place where families can step away from the pressures of everyday life and find time to rest, reflect and begin to heal.
At the heart of the retreat, we plan to provide a warm, fully equipped self-catering lodge where guests can stay in comfort, surrounded by nature. Covered seating areas, pergolas, benches and a reflective pond will offer peaceful spaces to pause, breathe and simply be.
Alongside the natural surroundings, we hope to offer a range of meaningful and restorative experiences. These will include supervised time with animals such as ponies, donkeys, chickens, cats and therapy dogs, providing gentle comfort and grounding for those who need it most. We also plan to create dedicated art studios where local artists will lead activities including painting, felting, pottery and other creative sessions, alongside a fully equipped games room where families can spend quality time together.
Sustainability will be at the heart of Dandelions Retreat. We hope to offer families the opportunity to plant memorial trees or contribute to a dedicated orchard, creating a living legacy in memory of loved ones.
Through the generosity and support of our community, we hope to bring Dandelions Retreat to life – a place where nature, creativity and compassion come together to gently support families as they navigate their journey through grief.
Through restorative time in nature, meaningful contact with animals, and creative activities led by skilled practitioners, we hope to offer individuals and families moments of peace, connection and renewal. Our vision is for every part of the retreat — from the meadows and pond to the workshops and quiet spaces — to provide a safe and nurturing environment where people can navigate their grief at their own pace.
We hope Dandelions Retreat will become a place of hope, compassion and understanding, where every visitor feels supported, valued, and reassured that they do not have to face their journey alone.
We’re just starting our journey
Through restorative time in nature, meaningful contact with animals, and creative activities led by skilled practitioners, we hope to offer individuals and families moments of peace, connection and renewal. Our vision is for every part of the retreat — from the meadows and pond to the workshops and quiet spaces — to provide a safe and nurturing environment where people can navigate their grief at their own pace.
We hope Dandelions Retreat will become a place of hope, compassion and understanding, where every visitor feels supported, valued, and reassured that they do not have to face their journey alone.
