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Breaks for bereaved parents in France

One of the most difficult things to do after the death of a son or daughter is going away on holiday...having to see all those 'complete' families can be just unbearable. So, The Compassionate Friends is building a new relationship to provide bereaved parents an opportunity to have a break in France.

Jack and Margaret Reckitt have a holiday and retreat business, called Manoir Mouret, in South West France. Mouret is made up of 4 self-contained properties and in total can provide accommodation for up to 24 people. Jack and Margaret would like to make Mouret available to members of The Compassionate Friends, without charge, to have a break. We have agreed a first TCF week this summer which is from Saturday 27 August to Saturday 3 September. Only TCF members will be staying during the week and the intention to create a private, peaceful environment where people can relax.

This first week is for bereaved parents only. There will be no children staying at Manoir Mouret in this week - adults only. At Manoir Mouret you will know that during that week only bereaved parents will be there. You can talk together and share your stories if you want or keep more private if you wish - but you will know you are among others who 'get it'.

Please note it is ok to go on your own or you might prefer to go with others - perhaps a one other or a few parents from a TCF support group or you might have met others at a retreat weekend or support day...you could share one of the gites perhaps or the main house.

Here are a few Questions & Answers that we have put together with Jack and Margaret which hopefully answer some questions you may have including what to do next if you are interested in learning more and/or staying at Mouret this summer.

Next year we plan to organise a couple (or more) weeks at Mouret and we will let members know as soon as these 2023 dates have been settled.