The castle can also be a challenging space for many other reasons. At the heart of faerie culture, there is a foundation of care for fellow fae, as well as care for yourself. Entering the space we invite you to have compassion for others, as well as self-compassion.

There is usually a lot going on at gatherings and though we are encouraged to participate in activities it’s important we look after ourselves. It is good to find quiet moments to check-in and make sure you are taking care of yourself. Faeries live by the radical idea that ‘self-care is sexy’.

So we’d like to introduce you to the idea of ‘JOMO’ the ‘joy of missing out’, it can be tempting to try and do EVERYTHING but inevitably that will lead to burnout.

We will be creating quiet spaces at the castle, including a quieter meal space and a low-sensory ‘breakout’ space for Fae needing some escape time in a calm environment. This ‘quieter’ space will be the stone room along with an additional ‘Escape Space’ in the annexe kitchen. The Escape Space is provided for those needing to be alone for a while, so if you are using the annexe kitchen to cook please be mindful of this.

Orange ‘invisibility’ ribbons will be available for Fae who need some alone time but wish to pass through or remain in shared spaces without interacting with other Fae. Please respect this where you see it 🧡

Please think carefully about coming to the Castle if you have symptoms of any infection as we will be in shared living spaces, so any infection is highly likely to be passed on and there are no facilities to self-isolate. Many in our community are immuno-compromised and at higher risk of complications from infection. Please be conscious and caring by taking a Covid test before coming to the gathering and being willing to take more tests as the gathering continues. In the interests of communal care please be considerate about the risks of sexually transmitted infections. If you’re considering sexual activity then it is in all of our best interests to consider getting tested before attending. Please also be aware that the nearest hospitals are 30-35 miles away.

Please feel able to chat to a welfaerie about anything in confidence or ask for support.

Our WellFaerie team will be around to help and support you whether you need a shoulder to cry on or someone to hold your hair back. Please be mindful that welfae are volunteers and not trained professionals and they need to look after themselves as well.