Charity Firewalk 2026
You do not have to feel fearless to become a firewalker
Could you take one brave step and walk barefoot across a bed of glowing embers?
In November, the Different Strokes Firewalk is coming to Old Saltleians Rugby Club in Water Orton, near Birmingham. Different Strokes is proud to be the club’s Charity of the Year, and the event will bring our two communities together for an unforgettable evening.
Firewalking sounds daunting – but that is what makes it so empowering. An experienced instructor will help participants prepare before they face their nerves, step onto the coals and discover what they can achieve. It is about courage, confidence and taking that first step, rather than fitness or endurance.
At previous Different Strokes Firewalks, nervous anticipation has quickly turned into excitement, with walkers reaching the other side wearing huge smiles and many feeling inspired to cross again.
Every pound raised will help Different Strokes provide peer support, practical information, exercise and rehabilitation resources, and support for families, helping working-age stroke survivors reclaim their lives.
You do not have to feel fearless to become a firewalker. Feel the fear, take the step and help us make a lasting difference.
When is the Firewalk?
Sunday 15th November at: Old Saltleians RFC, Coleshill Road, Water Orton, B46 1QE
What to expect?
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 the temperature is 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 at least 10 steps at a fair pace then you should manage the Firewalk perfectly well. If you can take the 10 steps with a little assistance (holding a hand) then please contact us to discuss. 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?
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.
What do I need to do to take part?
Complete the registration form and pay £5 registration fee. We do ask for a minimum sponsorship of £250.
Why do you ask for a minimum sponsorship?
The minimum sponsorships are set to cover the costs associated with paying for the event organisers, t-shirts, administration and support. We hope to cover these costs and have a surplus which supports our annual fundraising targets. These targets are set based on what we want to achieve with regards to providing services and support to younger stroke survivors and our aspirations increase each year! With no government funding Different Strokes relies on funding from such events and we are grateful to everyone who supports us in this way. In return you get to take part in an amazing event and take home some precious memories. If you would like help to reach your target please don’t hesitate to get in contact, we will be more than happy to support you.
Firewalk Registration Form
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