By Annemarie Ward
There’s something extraordinary about bringing women together—a palpable energy that fosters healing, unity, and empowerment. This October, FAVOR UK hosted the Women’s Healing Retreat at the serene Netherurd Garden House in the Scottish Borders, creating a space where women from diverse backgrounds came together to support each other, share stories, and rejuvenate their spirits.
From October 4th to 6th, this retreat, funded in part by The Volant Charitable Trust, welcomed women facing unique recovery challenges—These are some of the most resilient, yet often underserved, women in our communities. We built this weekend to offer them something crucial: a break from the weight of daily life and a safe space to connect, reflect, and grow.
An Environment of Trust and Safety
From the moment women arrived, there was an atmosphere of warmth and openness. One woman put it best: “I felt totally relaxed from the moment I got here. I’ve never been at a retreat like this where I felt so cared for.” This feedback validated our approach—we knew that to help people heal, we needed to create an environment that feels like a haven.
Our days were filled with thoughtfully designed activities that promoted well-being and personal growth. From Sound Bath Meditation and Soulsa Dance Fitness to the simple joy of evening campfire gatherings, each session encouraged participants to reconnect with themselves and others. One attendee shared, “I’ve struggled with being around other women, but this weekend showed me how empowering it can be. I didn’t want to leave.”
Building Connection and Resilience
The retreat wasn’t just about a structured programme—it was about fostering genuine connections. Women supported each other, laughed, cried, and celebrated small victories. Whether participating in group discussions, playing board games, or dancing at the Silent Disco, each interaction built a sense of belonging and solidarity. One participant said, “It was lovely just to come and switch off and be looked after.” Another reflected, “This weekend has been filled with laughter, deep conversations, and lots of fun. It’s been really empowering being around so many wonderful women.”
The power of peer support was a significant theme throughout the weekend. Women who initially felt anxious or out of place gradually opened up, forming bonds that made them feel seen and understood. A particularly touching moment for me was hearing, “I kept thinking I wasn’t supposed to be here, but the moment I arrived, I felt totally relaxed. It’s been great fun, great hugs, and I can’t wait for the next one.”
A Holistic Approach to Recovery
The retreat was structured to blend personal reflection with physical and therapeutic activities. The women had opportunities to participate in everything from meditation sessions to cold-water therapy and pampering. These activities were designed to help participants relax and reclaim a sense of peace. The blend of structured and informal moments allowed for full engagement without feeling overwhelmed.
Participants reported measurable improvements in well-being, noting increased relaxation and mental clarity. This was paired with activities that fostered a deeper understanding of self and strategies for ongoing recovery. One woman beautifully expressed, “I’ve felt an abundance of love from everyone here, and I’m grateful I could pour that back into others. It’s been a truly special experience.”
Looking Ahead: Sustainability and Growth
The success of this retreat has set the stage for future ambitions. We envision making the Women’s Healing Retreat an annual event to extend its reach and positive impact. Our goal is to increase the number of participants and diversify our offerings, with culturally tailored activities and trauma-informed therapy sessions that cater to women’s specific needs.
Our plans also include enhancing our evaluation framework, ensuring we capture the full impact of these retreats on participants’ mental health, social integration, and long-term recovery. Pre- and post-retreat surveys and qualitative interviews will help us refine our approach and scale our efforts responsibly.
An Invitation to Future Partners
We know that lasting recovery requires ongoing support and opportunities for renewal. To keep this momentum going, we are seeking partners who share our vision and commitment. By investing in retreats like this, potential funders and community supporters will contribute directly to the well-being and empowerment of women at a critical point in their recovery.
As one participant poignantly noted, “I came in feeling a bit socially awkward, but the kindness and warmth from everyone made me feel like I belonged. I am grateful to have been here.” That sense of belonging and shared purpose is what makes this work so powerful—and it’s a vision worth expanding.
We look forward to building on this foundation and creating even more transformative experiences for women in recovery. Read the full report here