Last weekend we hosted a group of Military Families ‘All Together’ for Dorset Reconnection Weekend.  The weekend was the third of our fully funded breaks, which are designed to help families reconnect and spend meaningful time together.

This weekend’s event was held at the Brenscombe Outdoor Centre near the iconic Corfe Castle and was generously funded by Civica.

Louise, Founder of our charity, commented: “The All Together weekends are all about creating space for military families to come together, reconnect, and enjoy each other’s company away from the pressures of daily forces life. Reconnection really is at the heart of these weekends. This particular event gave families the chance to unwind, be together in nature, and strengthen their emotional bonds through fun and shared adventures.” 

Activity packed weekend

Eight families took part in the Dorset weekend. It kicked off on Friday 25th July with a scenic walk along Purbeck Ridge to see Corfe Castle. On Saturday, families enjoyed a day packed with water-based activities including raft building, kayaking, and canoeing. In teams everyone rowed around Poole Harbour stopping off at Brownsea Island. In the evening the children enjoyed building a campfire and games. The weekend concluded on Sunday 27th July with high and low ropes challenges.

Louise, added, “Sunday was a special day, seeing the difference we made in just 48 hours. We sent the families home with renewed energy, new friendships, and lasting memories.”

Mel attended with her serving husband and two daughters 11 and 9. She said: “My daughters attend a school with very few military children so to just be here this weekend with other military families and have that shared experience has been fantastic. My children have really loved being with all the other kids, lots of new friendships have been formed. To be with other families who get it and understand the challenges has been great.”

Duncan McCallum, 12, is part of a British Army family. Duncan said: “It’s been a great weekend and I’ve had lots of fun. I’ve made friends, done loads of stuff I’ve never done before and faced some fears. My favourite activity was the canoes when we went to the island”

Final 2025 All Together Reconnection Weekend

The final All Together weekend of 2025 will take place in Portland, on the 26^th – 28^th September. Military families with up to four siblings aged 9 and over can apply to attend one of the weekends. The weekends are for families who have been through deployment recently or facing deployment. To find out more and apply for a place, click here.

All Together online

These weekends are part of our broader All Together initiative, which brings military children together to benefit from peer connection and shared experiences. Our aim it to help to build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. We have just launched our Autumn programme of online workshops. They are perfect for keeping the little ones busy and helping Mum or Dad have five minutes peace!