‘It takes a village to raise a child’ is a proverb which means that it takes an entire community of different people interacting in order for children to experience and grow in a safe environment. The villages would look out for the children. This Nigerian proverb exists in different forms in many African languages. The basic meaning is that child upbringing is a communal effort. The responsibility for raising a child is shared with the larger family (sometimes called the extended family). Everyone in the family participates especially the older children, aunts and uncles, grandparents, and even cousins. Even the wider community gets involved such as neighbours and friends. Children are considered a blessing from God for the whole community. This communal responsibility in raising children is also seen in the Sukuma (Tanzania) proverb “One knee does not bring up a child” and in the Swahili (East and Central Africa) proverb “One hand does not nurse a child.”

The Well Retreat may not be directly engaged in direct care of the children in our community but those who work with Caren at The Well Retreat recognise that the most effective support we can offer is to those who do work with, and who care for, children – parents, carers, and teachers. Supporting and informing parents (as well as others) about the issues that cause them concern and distress perhaps allows them to feel validated and empowered to do what they do best- look after children. The Well Retreat is committed to being an active part of the community, helping it to grow and thrive so that children who grow up in this community, grow up secure and confident, aware that their ‘village’ is one that will hold them safe in love.