Being heard is so close to being loved that, for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable. –David Augsberger

We take our voice, our opinion, our choices, for granted.  We eloquently express our needs and our viewpoints and know that we are listened to, that the other person ‘gets us.’  The notion that we could be spoken for and on behalf of, that our voice translates not into our wishes but into something that the listener interprets for us, is reprehensible to you and I.

Historically, there have been many thousands in the UK, millions worldwide, for whom a voice–on thoughts, feelings, needs and interests–has not been afforded them.  Today, great strides have been taken in paving a pathway to communication for all.  The last decade has seen labels applied less, more creative methods developed to facilitate voice.  We have policies that empower and directives that serve to help all to be heard. Technological advances bring us gadgets and widgets and programmes and choice.

And so, we embrace the changes that have transpired in the past and those that are yet to come.  The knowledge that we all are heard and understood is really the most fundamental and basic right.  Voices may not sound the same.  We may not express ourselves in the same way that our peers do, or our carer, our parent or friend but if we are heard then we know we matter.

— Jane Montrose, Managing Director

Summerwood is a specialist residential home for up to 8 adults with learning and physical disabilities, who may also have complex needs and/or needs associated with the autistic spectrum.  Summerwood offers extremely flexible accommodation which can be utilised as either a stepping stone to more independent living or for a high needs service.  We now have available one delightful ensuite first floor bedroom with garden view.

Located in Ashley, a small hamlet close to the thriving town of New Milton, the home is close to the New Forest National Park and beaches of Barton-On-Sea, Highcliffe and Lymington.  The house itself is situated within walking distance of local bus services to Bournemouth, Southampton and other places of interest.  Also close by are local shops, churches, green spaces, pub and hairdresser/barber.

For further information, please telephone John, Registered Manager, on: 01425 839687

“D and J both participated in the bushcraft adventure. Following a nature trail, they identified different leaves and brought home a picture of the leaves that they had collected. Nuts were then collected for use on the fire.Both got involved in making dream catchers and now have them hanging in their rooms.

D said that the best part of the day was building a hut from branches and leaves.”

–– Jayne Jackson, Apple House care home.

James White, owner of Sunrise Bushcraft, believes that ‘Personal integration with nature and the earth can produce some surprisingly fantastic results.’  After our bushcraft day, we have to agree with James!

Our guys were particularly fortunate in that James happens to be a previous Masterchef finalist!  Lunch was always going to be delicious!  With his helpers for the day, together they cooked marinated chicken wraps, prepared with freshly picked herbs from the forest. These were followed by fresh baked muffins. Yum!

“T1 was very keen to explore his environment and really enjoyed looking at how to make a shelter. He also enjoyed the fire making which was very exciting.

T2, who has completed a 10 week forest walking course, took the whole thing in his stride (Ha ha!). He listened really carefully to the instructors and engaged well at all levels. On return to Summerwood he gave a run down to staff on the day and said that he really enjoyed everything about it especially the food, making and lying in the shelter and lighting the fire with a flint.

When asked how we could thank the instructor he jumped at the chance and suggested fresh eggs from our own hens would be a suitable gift.

For someone who finds any activity a challenge T has discovered something he can really get stuck into and he has said that he would like to go again.”

–– John Caslake, Summerwood care home.

James told us that the day spent with residents from our homes was ‘One of the best buschcraft days I’ve ever known – so much fun!’  Our staff too got into the swing of it, helping to build shelters, forage and make leaf flags and dream-catchers.

“S and D thoroughly enjoyed their bushcraft training!  Upon return home, both were very excited to tell us about what they had achieved and to show us the crafts that they had made.

The experience has also motivated both to try new things.  It has mentally stimulated S and D, who seem eager to learn more individual skills.

Overall a fantastic day for which they are looking forward to repeating!”

–– Sharron Eyears, Redcroft care home.

The day was funded by our organisation and we are already planning ahead for the next bushcraft experience as well as a Team Day for staff!  Now that will be fun as we’re a competitive bunch and, secretly, I think we all hope that Romaine, Director of Operations, gets a dunking or stuck up a tree!

–– Jane Montrose, Managing Director.

We are delighted to announce that we have commissioned the services of Sunrise Bushcraft to provide adventure days for residents of our homes.

Utilising the wonderful forest on our doorstep, individuals will be able to forage for herbs, build shelters, take part in fun activities and really get back to nature!

Taking home more than just an experience…

From whittling pencils to making dream-catchers to working towards a qualification, our aim is for every person to take something away that is special to them.  Whether it be a certificate or a crown hand crafted from the forest, there will be a reminder of the experience that will linger way beyond the day itself.

Sunrise Bushcraft are experienced providers of bushcraft, working with local authorities, charities and simply the adventurous.  Accredited and leaders in their field, “Sunrise Bushcraft Outdoor Academy offers tailored events that include activities such as shelter building, fire making, woodland foraging, team games, cooking, bow making, primitive living, animal track & signs, and much more for everyone, including those participants challenged by disability, mental health problems or learning difficulties,” says James White of Sunrise.

We can’t wait to share our fun with you in due course so watch this space!

Summerwood is a specialist residential home for up to 8 adults with learning and physical disabilities, who may also have complex needs and/or needs associated with the autistic spectrum.  Summerwood offers extremely flexible accommodation which can be utilised as either a stepping stone to more independent living or for a high needs service.  We now have available one delightful en-suite first floor bedroom with garden view.

Located in Ashley, a small hamlet close to the thriving town of New Milton, the home is close to the New Forest National Park and beaches of Barton-On-Sea, Highcliffe and Lymington.  The house itself is situated within walking distance of local bus services to Bournemouth, Southampton and other places of interest.  Also close by are local shops, churches, green spaces, pub and hairdresser/barber.

For further information, please telephone John, Registered Manager, on: 01425 839687