What a night!

You raised over £11,000 for better mental health in Hertfordshire

On Thursday 22 October, our very first Firewalk took place at The Bull at Berkhamsted, and what an evening it was.

A huge thank you to everyone who kicked off their shoes and walked across the hot coals. Your courage and determination were inspiring to watch, and we’re so grateful you chose to support Hertfordshire Mind in such a unique way.

Including Gift Aid, you’ve raised over £10,000. That’s a phenomenal amount, and every pound will make a real difference to people across Hertfordshire who need support with their mental health.

We had the weather on our side too. The rain held off until the last walkers were across the coals, then the heavens opened. We couldn’t have timed it better if we’d tried!

Thank you to our partners

We couldn’t have done it without:

  • The Bull at Berkhamsted, for hosting us and helping make the evening such a success
  • UK Firewalk, for running the event and keeping everyone safe on the coals
  • Everyone who came along to cheer. The atmosphere you created made the night even more special.

Still want to sponsor a walker?

It’s not too late. Lots of people donate once they’ve seen the photos and heard how the night went, so if you know someone who took part, you can still show your support.

Sponsor a Firewalker

 

Fancy walking the coals in 2027?

After such a brilliant first year, the Firewalk is coming back in 2027. If you’d like to take on the challenge, or you missed out this time, register your interest below and we’ll let you know as soon as the date is confirmed and places open.

Thinking about taking part in 2027? Here’s what to expect. If you’ve got a question we haven’t covered, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

What your support means

Last year, Hertfordshire Mind supported 18,000 children and adults with their mental health, and that’s only possible thanks to supporters like you.

Every £10 raised through this event helps us answer the phone to one more person when they need us most. Over £10,000 means more than 1,000 calls answered.

Your bravery on the night reflects the courage it takes for so many people to reach out for help every day. Thank you for standing with us.

 

If you would like more information, before booking your place, please get in touch. You can register your interest by clicking the button below, once you have done this, one of our team will be in touch with you to discuss your next steps.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact us:

📧 [email protected] 

📞 020 3727 3600

FAQs

What exactly is a Firewalk?

Participants will undergo training of around one hour. When the fire has burned to red-hot embers it is raked level and prepared for the walk. Participants go to the fire, remove their footwear and one by one are invited to walk the coals.

Is it a trick?

No – the fire is very real. The embers will be glowing red-hot and we can often measure the temperature at around 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. You will have bare feet, and they will not have been treated in any way.

Will it hurt?

The sensation is described by some as walking on eggshells, and others as walking on hot sand. Each walker has his or her own experience. We have not known walkers to experience pain and when the opportunity arises many will walk across the coals more than once.

How should I prepare?

There is no preparation to undertake. No treatment of the feet or mental exercise, just the training provided at the seminar. You should abstain from the consumption of alcohol or drugs prior to the event. Any person who is in the opinion of the trainer unfit to participate will NOT be permitted to take part.
Please ensure your feet are clean and free from massage and pedicure oils.

How fit do I need to be?

There is no strenuous physical exercise involved. If you can walk normally then you should manage the Firewalk perfectly well. If you have any doubts please consult your GP before attending.

What should I wear?

There is no special clothing required. Casual comfortable clothes are best. Please remember fires can be quite dirty and clothes may become ash stained. Footwear needs to be easy to remove, and will need to be replaced before going back indoors so a hand towel might be a good idea. Flip flops are a good idea, especially if the ground is cold. Nail varnish and toe rings are fine.

Are there any medical restrictions?

We have many people walk who are pregnant, have diabetes, stroke survivors, and are blind amongst many other conditions. None have been an issue, however we always recommend if in doubt seek advice from your doctor.

Is it safe?

There is an inherent risk in any activity involving fire. It is important that participants pay attention to all the training and heed the advice and instruction of the trainer, firewatchers and spotters. Whilst absolute safety is not guaranteed proper procedure reduces risk to the achievable minimum.

Will I be hypnotised?

No. There is no hypnotism involved. You will be fully awake at all times – indeed you will be more alert than usual. You may also withdraw at any time if you wish.

What about age restrictions?

Walkers should be over the age of 16 years old. All we ask if under 18 that they are mature enough to listen to the training and will require a parent or guardian to sign a form.

Alcohol and prescribed/non prescribed drugs

Due to the inherent risks associated with firewalking, any substances which adversely affect the operation of your nervous system will have a negative impact on your ability to walk safely over hot coals. Any person who appears to be visibly intoxicated will be declined the opportunity to firewalk. If you are taking any prescribed medication you are unsure about, please refer to your local GP for advice