I attended two weekends at Ratford during my final year at medical school, a stressful and testing time, and found them hugely helpful. Having a supportive space, in a lovely rural setting, was hugely beneficial to our group of students. Derek and Sandy helped us unpack a lot of emotions, concerns, feelings and stress and then begin to process them together in a way that was empowering and constructive.Each day would start with some stretching and a mindfulness exercise, then a delicious breakfast. There would be group sessions (including group exercises and a guided meditation) during the day as well as outdoor activities.Through structured sessions as well as free time we explored both the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Having the thinking space and time to really explore important issues and, crucially, I think, having the support and guidance of such experienced doctors as Derek and Sandy meant that you would leave on the Sunday, well fed and rested and feeling confident, calm and excited about the road ahead.    Catherine Graham, final year medical student 2017

Ratford Retreat Centre is more than I expected. I was warmly welcomed and hour by hour I felt more connected to my life purpose in a healthy inspiring way. I left replenished and re-energized. The secret sauce that Sandy & Derek provide is meaningful, important and much appreciated.   Thank you.  Carole Falkner 2018

I led a six man one day retreat - connecting and doing internal and relational work. The facilities were perfect and we really appreciated the chapel - the sacred space that it provided - the peace and ease of the accommodation and the beautiful surroundings. The bonfire was outstanding! Thank you. Ben McKie 2018

In 2018 we were the first group to meet at the then recently converted Ratford Retreat Centre and found the combination of ‘group room’ - the chapel - alongside the accommodation and  surrounding countryside suited us very well. We came back again this year and things having become more established to good effect with small but important changes - Derek has encouraged us to offer suggestions of improvement on both occasions.

Everything worked well and we were comfortable. The kitchen area is not suited to more than 2-3 people working together at once but ‘sous chefs’ would prepare food at the dining room table. The three shower rooms and loos were very adequate, though storage space is limited. We will be keen to return again. Xander, September 2019

I went on a Drs retreat in Wiltshire run by a former GP and his neonatologist wife and spent a good deal of time focussing on me and who I was and how I want to live my life - a concept that felt a bit selfish and odd to start with as I think we have a tendency to be all about the other people (patients and children). It was emotional, enlightening and I met some amazing people. I’d highly recommend it to everyone, in fact, maybe it should be compulsory for doctors - far better than all that mandatory training bollocks. I’ve also enjoyed some fantastic conversations with friends and acquaintances about the weekend since and trying hard to keep those little changes going. Just waiting for my husband to get back this weekend to tackle some of the others!” Sarah, January 2020

I attended the ‘From Surviving to Thriving’ weekend for qualified health practitioners. I would like to thank Derek and Sandy for an inspiring, relaxing and thought provoking weekend. The setting is beautiful, the food delicious and the teaching/facilitation both gentle and challenging (in a good way!) I really appreciated the time spent outside connecting with nature and the insights this bought. I also found it useful to have the time and space to reflect on my personality and situation and how best to address any conflicts and difficult areas. I gained a lot from working within a group and the experience that bought. I have already made changes both in my work and my personal life and intend to continue this work. Ruth, January 2020

My experience at the Ratford Retreat Centre has been a beacon of hope and positivity. Derek and Sandy curated the most impactful weekend one can imagine. The days began in the chapel with mindfulness activities followed by an opportunity to connect with the beautiful natural surroundings of the grounds. The peaceful start set the mood for the remainder of the day. Through structured group activities I was able to explore some of my inner conflicts, and discuss the themes which were weighing me down. This was met with clear and thoughtful prompts from both Derek and Sandy which allowed me to further explore my thought processes and patterns. Throughout the weekend, I was exposed to many helpful mindfulness techniques which I'm now beginning to integrate into my day to day activities. This retreat left a mark on me which will stay with me for a long time; my perspective has shifted for the better. Special thanks to Sandy for the delicious and nutritious meals she prepared daily, the bread maker now has a fan club! Thank you Derek and Sandy for your hard work, genuine approach and generosity. Sabiha, March 2022

Derek and Sandy lead the most wonderful wholesome and uplifting weekend of rest, mindfulness, meditation, yoga and  brilliantly facilitated rich discussion sessions in a lovely converted chapel within their beautiful grounds. A walk through the grounds during silent meditation in the morning is restorative in a very special way. Meals are delightful and lots of homegrown ingredients are used. They both clearly care dearly about giving this unforgettable experience to fellow doctors. Much needed in times where the NHS is in crisis. I left feeling taken care of and cared for. Thank you….this experience will stay with me forever. I may even go again :) Sarah, Consultant psychiatrist October 2022

It was an enriching, restful and lovely experience to be at the retreat. What a way to be cared for! A treat for mind , body and soul. I had not realised how much I had needed such a space, offered generously skilfully and meaningfully, by both Derek and Sandy. Nourished well with food, mindfulness, yoga, walks in nature, good company and sensitive exploration of where we all were in our lives. I would highly recommend the treat to my colleagues as a way to take a pause and reflect and come in synch with what matters the most. Thank you to both of you. Lubna, Consultant psychiatrist May 2023

Attended the May retreat rather last minute with few expectations. Best decision ever. Met lovely people, came away happier and rejuvenated and reminded of what is really important. Beautiful location and surroundings. Am very grateful to Derek and Sandy and would highly recommend! A grateful GP, May 2023

'Derek and Sandy created a wonderfully relaxed, nourishing and supportive space where we could take some time out of our busy schedules to be in beautiful surroundings, eat delicious food and reflect on who we are as individuals and what our needs are outside of our work, family and social lives. As a group I feel we took positive steps towards making a commitment to our own happiness, health and wellbeing so that we can continue to be there for our patients and loved ones without losing ourselves. This can so easily happen in a medical career where the focus is on being a contribution to our patients and workplace. We get easily get lost and burnt out in the process.' Deniah, Sept 2023