Reflections on Our Big Summer gathering July 2026
On 29th July 2026 a group of young people and their families referred into our service gathered at Grow Wilder for a day of food, foraging, and being outside in and among nature. Here are a few reflections from the day.
Anna, Senior Therapist & Nature Based Creative Therapy Lead
Katherine, CEO
I was excited to join our Nature Based Therapy and VOICE teams at Grow Wilder, to welcome to our annual summer gathering the children, young people, parents and carers, who have been supported by The Green House. Holding this event in such a tranquil space, surrounded by the trees, flowers, fruit and vegetables which grow freely helped everyone to feel a sense of ease and belonging. It reminded me just how vitally important the environment is in supporting healing after trauma.
I was able to have the most wonderful conversations; we laughed, we reflected, we paused and we took the opportunity to nurture existing connections and develop new ones. The generosity of local cafe’s and restaurants also kept us very well fed! I am extremely proud to be part of this Charity and want to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone who helped make the day so special.
Ella, VOICE Practitioner
I loved how the connection between everyone grew as the day unfolded. I loved the creativity, from making beautiful flower crowns to an amazing mandala using flowers, fruit, words, and anything we could find around the land. I loved watching the resident cat stalk its prey, and the endless supply of food and cake (thanks to all the local organisations that donated).