This September, Caritas Anchor House visited Dowry House for a three day retreat in Little Walsingham, Norfolk as part of our Wellbeing Programme. The purpose of this trip is to provide a peaceful retreat for our residents, particularly as many of our residents struggle with anxiety, depression and long-term mental health problems. Due to this, we work with residents to improve their wellbeing, and enable them to move on from Caritas Anchor House and thrive in the community.

Our three day retreat gave residents a chance to relax, bond as a group and take part in enjoyable activities. Upon arrival, the group of ten tucked in to a delicious lunch after the long train journey. They explored the Walsingham Abbey Grounds which is famous for the spectacular ruins of the medieval Priory of our Lady of Walsingham, one of the medieval world’s most important places of pilgrimage.  The group also visited the Shirehall Museum which displays the history of Walsingham as a place of pilgrimage as well as historical photographs and artefacts of village law and order.

The second day was spent visiting to Wells-Next-the-Sea, a beautiful seaside town with miles of sandy beaches, dune walks and pine tree forests. Despite the weather, the group enjoyed a walk on the beach, and a fish and chip lunch watching the fishing boats come and go on the quay.

Every evening, residents had the opportunity to participate in movie nights with the group, or instead, enjoy their own free time. To round off the relaxing trip, the group enjoyed pizzas and movie together on their last evening together. Fiona* who attended the retreat, said, “The trip to Norfolk was relaxing, and also a team building experience. I really enjoyed it.”

Elif, our Mental Health Lead who facilitates the bi-annual trip, said, “It is always great to have the chance to take residents to the peaceful village of Walsingham. Some of our residents have never had the chance to take a break or have a holiday, and this is a great opportunity for them to have time to themselves away from their daily stress”.

Read more about our mental health and wellbeing services here.

*name has been changed to protect resident identity.