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Growing Together: Participant Stories & Feedback

what they say 

At Wye Knot Community, we create experiences that bring people of all ages and abilities together—locally and internationally. From our sell-out Dementia Tea Dances and popular Playing Together groups, to Forest School projects in the UK, & to our overseas projects in Sweden, America. our movement therapy classes in care homes and community settings.

 

Through outdoor exploration, creative play, movement, and shared challenges, participants leave with new skills, lasting friendships, and a deeper sense of confidence and wellbeing. This page shares the voices of those who have experienced our programmes and highlights the transformative impact of the work we provide.

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Supporting Our Community

 

Playing Together is more than just a playgroup—it’s a space where people of all ages feel seen, supported, and connected. Throughout the year, we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals facing real challenges. It’s in these quiet, powerful moments of care that the true heart of this project shines.

 

One example is a young single mother who had recently moved to the UK. She felt isolated and unsure where to find friendship or guidance. After getting to know her, we researched local services and shared a tailored list of community activities and a support group for single parents. She now attends regularly and even brings other families along. She says she finally feels like she belongs.

 

We also welcomed a foster family whose young children were deeply shy and unfamiliar with groups. At first, they stayed silent, overwhelmed by the setting. But through consistency, encouragement, and kindness from older participants, they began to flourish. Now, they arrive excited, play freely, and share hugs with other group members. Their carer told us it’s the best group they’ve ever been part of—for both her and the children—because it feels “filled with love and acceptance.”

 

Our dementia community is also at the heart of what we do. We offer a safe, welcoming space where people can enjoy watching the children, join in activities as much as they wish, and feel part of something bigger. The feedback has been moving: one lady told us, “This is the highlight of my week—if I didn’t have this, I wouldn’t want to be alive.” Another said, “Even though I have dementia, I remember this day.” And another shared, “I always feel welcomed in this space—thank you for providing something for dementia.”

 

Dementia Tea Parties at The Courtyard, Hereford

 

 

Our Dementia Tea Parties at The Courtyard are a sell-out every time, with returning guests and care homes from across Hereford joining us for afternoons filled with music, dancing, and delicious food. Families and carers tell us how much these events mean to them, creating joy, connection, and treasured memories.

 

 

What People Say

 

 

  • “We love the music, we love the dancing, and the food is always wonderful. We look forward to every Tea Party—thank you ever so much.”

  • “These events are always a highlight of our month. Our residents talk about it for days afterwards.”

  • “It’s such a warm, welcoming atmosphere—everyone feels part of it.”

 

 

 

A Family’s Story

 

 

One family shared how special the Tea Party was for their mother, who attended the day before she passed away in her late 90s with dementia. “All she wanted to do was dance—and she danced the whole time. We now have precious memories of her last day, filled with joy and music. We didn’t know she was going to die, but it brings us peace to know her final day was such a happy one. Thank you for putting so much love and care into this, and for giving our mum such a beautiful last memory.”

 

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All the Work We Provided for Military Wives & Partners – Adventures in the Wild

 

 

From our Sweden trips with Sweden Outdoor Coaching to our Wilderness Weekends, we provided military wives and partners with transformative adventures that reconnected them with nature, themselves, and each other.

 

Here’s what participants have to say about the experiences we provided:

 

 

 

 

Adventure & Challenge

 

 

“I had the best time of my life. Paddling, learning wilderness skills, and immersing myself in nature was incredible. The challenges pushed me, but I felt capable and empowered every step of the way.”

 

Participants loved the adventures we provided:

 

  • Canoeing, fire lighting, whittling, and outdoor challenges.

  • Pushing personal limits while working as a team.

  • Experiencing the freedom and raw beauty of the wild.

 

 

 

 

 

Connection & Friendship

 

 

“The friendships I made were the highlight. Sharing stories, laughter, and adventures with other women who understand our lives has been life-changing.”

 

Through the experiences we provided:

 

  • Lifelong friendships and supportive networks were built.

  • Mentoring and learning across generations occurred naturally.

  • Relationships strengthened home life and family connections.

 

 

 

 

 

Wellbeing & Reflection

 

 

“I feel re-energized and inspired. This trip gave me space to breathe, reconnect with myself, and appreciate the simple joys of life.”

 

The opportunities we provided encouraged:

 

  • Time away from routine stress.

  • Quiet reflection in nature.

  • Renewed perspective and calm.

 

 

 

 

 

Wye Knot Women’s Wilderness Weekend

 

 

During our Wilderness Weekend (April 25–27, 2025), we provided another chance for women to connect with nature, build community, and grow personally. Feedback from participants highlighted:

 

  • 78% said the weekend exceeded their expectations.

  • Minor suggestions focused on campsite comfort, like leveling the ground or reducing rocks under tents.

  • Participants suggested increasing awareness of these events to help more women join and benefit.

 

 

“This weekend fostered a sense of community and personal growth. The experience we were provided was supportive, enriching, and unforgettable.”

 

 

 

 

Expert Guidance & Safety

 

 

“I felt completely safe with the instructors – knowledgeable, energetic, and fun. I could fully focus on the adventure and personal growth.”

 

The experiences we provided were:

 

  • Structured yet flexible, with balanced support and safety.

  • Guided by instructors who created a welcoming environment for women to thrive.

 

 

 

 

 

Overall Impact

 

 

The adventures we provided go far beyond outdoor activities—they are transformative experiences that:

 

  • Build resilience, confidence, and independence.

  • Expand support networks and reduce isolation.

  • Improve mental health and wellbeing.

  • Strengthen family relationships and home-life stability.

  • Teach practical skills while reconnecting with nature.

 

 

“The experiences we were provided left me stronger, calmer, and more connected than when I arrived.”

 

Whether it’s a multi-day wilderness trip in Sweden or a weekend escape closer to home, the experiences we provided give military wives and partners the space, tools, and encouragement to thrive in the wild.

What they Say

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Sweden dream team

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