Refugees and Asylum Seekers at Minsteracres

Amid a backdrop of uncertainty and hardship for refugees and asylum seekers on Teesside, Minsteracres Retreat Centre emerged as a sanctuary of hope and welcome last week. Our doors opened to a group from the Refugee and Asylum Seeker Project Stockton (RASPS), bringing together both familiar and new faces in a spirit of community and support.

Event Overview

This particular retreat saw a vibrant mix of 30 participants, comprising 13 adults and 17 children and young people, ranging from the tender age of 11 months to 16 years. Our goal was to create an environment that not only welcomed but also provided a respite from the ongoing challenges faced by these individuals. With activities planned for the children, we aimed to give parents a rare chance to unwind and engage with peers in a relaxing setting.

Activities and Highlights

The retreat was filled with specially curated activities designed to foster interaction and joy among our guests. The adventure began with a scavenger hunt through the expansive grounds of Minsteracres, where children collected natural ‘treasures’ to assemble a group collage. This was followed by an outdoor yoga session led by the skilled Rachel Orange, involving both children and adults, which added a layer of calm and collective breathing to the day’s events.

The following day unfolded in our Peace Garden, under the guidance of Holly Clay from the charity Let’s Get Growing. The children were immersed in creative activities, playful games, and listened intently to stories amidst the greenery. Post-lunch, the day continued with woodland crafts, a trust-building game, and a hands-on session creating art from natural materials. The highlight was a drumming workshop conducted by Mark Barfoot, which not only attracted the children but also had adults joining in, resulting in an impromptu dance session filled with laughter and rhythmic beats.

Evening Festivities

As the sun set, the evenings brought their own magic. The first night was a cozy affair with crafts and a film night, allowing the children some downtime in a relaxed atmosphere. The retreat’s festive spirit peaked during the ‘Rasps has Talent’ show, where children donned costumes and bravely showcased their talents through singing, dancing, and stand-up performances. The joy and comfort they felt in expressing themselves were palpable, creating cherished memories for all attendees.

Gratitude and Farewells

The retreat concluded with heartfelt expressions of gratitude. Leon Fernandes, the group leader, articulated the collective appreciation of the visitors for the opportunity provided by Minsteracres.

Another poignant moment was shared by Arinata, a returning visitor, who movingly described the retreat center as a place touched by divine presence, underscoring the profound impact of these experiences on her and her children.

Engaging with our Community

Though the retreat was intensive, with long days filled with activities, the positive feedback and visible joy of our guests made every effort worthwhile. These gatherings are more than just temporary respites; they are vital for building a sense of community and support among those who often find themselves on the fringes.

At Minsteracres, we are committed to continuing these events and hope to engage more of our community in supporting these invaluable experiences.

Join us in our mission to provide sanctuary and support. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Terence Walsh

Terence Walsh is an experienced website and content designer who combines traditional techniques with modern technology. He specializes in enhancing blog posts with engaging content and appealing imagery that connects with readers. Terence creates online experiences that balance aesthetics and functionality, aiming for both visual appeal and effective communication. To view his work or discuss collaborations, visit twda.co.uk.