About Us

Open Arms

Since our company started in July 2002, (The Inclusion Consultancy Ltd) we have worked to promote Inclusive Practice in a wide range of organizations including Schools, LEAs and Government Departments. During this time we have been fortunate enough to work with like minded people from all walks of life

Our philosophy is based on “The Circle of Courage” (Brendtro, L.K. et al (1990)) with its 4 components of “Belonging” “Mastery” “Independence” and “Generosity”

We decided from the outset, that TIC’s profits had to be used “generously” i.e. giving back to others.

We have worked with many people, who have talked about friends, colleagues etc who needed ‘time out’… just a week to be in a peaceful place, where they didn’t have to think about daily chores such as cooking, cleaning etc. A place where they could take time to think and plan. This would encompass people from all walks of life; from different countries; different ages; different cultures. It could be a young couple who have a relative or child in a hospice, or someone who has just had a close family bereavement. Or, someone who has been abused, or lost their job, or looking after a relative with dementia or someone who is so stressed they cannot move forward. We decided that this was an area where we could give back and provide a safe welcoming place. At Brazos Abiertos a number of weeks throughout the year will be given to The Open Arms Project

For people visiting during these weeks there will be no charge. Guests for these weeks are nominated by the various groups/charities that we have links with.

We thought it would be helpful to list the answers to questions that people have asked us when we tell them about ‘Open Arms’

Are you doing this purely for altruistic reasons?

Definitely….we will not be making any profit from the ‘Open Arms’ weeks.

Who will decide who visits ‘Open Arms’?

To begin with, we will be asking the groups/charities with whom we have links, to nominate people for these weeks.

Will visitors have to pay for anything during their stay?

No, once they are at ‘Open Arms’ everything i.e. accommodation, food and drinks will be free of charge. They or their sponsors will need to pay for them to get to Malaga or Granada airport in Spain and for the transport to get them to ‘Open Arms’.

Who will work at ‘Open Arms’?

Any permanent staff will be employed from the local area. Many family members and friends have already offered their help to get ‘Open Arms' up and running i.e. gardening and decorating etc

What will people do while they are there?

Some people may be so traumatised that they will just need time and space to reflect. Others will be offered the opportunity to have support in planning their next move no matter how large or small. We intend to have colleagues visiting to support, at different times of the year, who are able to use alternative therapies. Many visitors will just need the facility to talk to someone who can give them support.

What living accommodation will there be for Open Arm’s visitors?

The full range of accommodation that Brazos Abiertos has to offer,

Are there places to visit in the local area?

Yes lots; there’s the village of Iznajar, The Alhambra Palace in Granada, The Sierra Nevada etc etc…lots of interesting places

How long will people visit for?

Open Arms visits will last for one week.

Can children visit?

Certainly ….we are able to put an additional bed in the rooms for small children or children can have a room of their own.

How are you funding The Open Arms Project?

The Inclusion Consultancy Ltd and the holidays and events at Brazos Abiertos will help to fund the Open Arms Project