Charity Firewalk 2025
Feel the fear and do it anyway!
The Different Strokes Firewalk 2025 charity event is a chance to conquer mind over matter whilst raising much needed funds for younger stroke survivors and having an amazing opportunity to walk on fire.
You’ll be fully briefed on the day by professionals and then you’ll take 10 daring steps across the hot embers. Â
This truly is an empowering experience you’ll remember forever. Â
When is the Firewalk?
Saturday, 28th June at The Plough, 100 St Johns Road, Swalecliffe, Whitstable, CT5 2RN
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.Â
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
Webinar: Dealing with Post-Stroke Fatigue
A large number of stroke survivors have to learn to cope with Neuro fatigue following their stroke. A panel of 3 stroke survivors will tell us about their experiences coping with fatigue. They will explain what can or could trigger their fatigue and how they personally deal with it day to day.
Join Us This September for Our Events – Life After Stroke: Identity, Experience and Insight
We’re excited to announce the return of our in-person stroke community events this autumn and this year, we’re focusing on three words that matter deeply to stroke survivors: identity, experience and insight.
Professor Pankaj Sharma Awarded OBE in King’s Birthday Honours 2025
We are delighted to share the news that Professor Pankaj Sharma who has served as a medical advisor to Different Strokes for many years has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025.
Webinar: How to Identify Red Flags in the Prevention and Treatment of Stroke
Join us on 2nd July in this FREE webinar and Q&A, led by Laura Barlow of Bolt Burdon Kemp.
Richard Djan-Krofa Wins the 2025 Different Strokes Outstanding Contribution Award
We are delighted to announce that Richard Djan-Krofa has been awarded the 2025 Different Strokes Outstanding Contribution Award. This annual honour recognises a volunteer who has gone above and beyond in their service to the charity and wider stroke community. With more than 15 years of committed service, Richard is a truly deserving recipient.
Fundraising Heroes of 2025: The Tom Collins Fundraising Team
We are proud to announce our Fundraising Heroes of 2025: the extraordinary Tom Collins Fundraising Team. This recognition honours not just their dedication to raising vital funds and awareness, but also the love, friendship and strength that has inspired a legacy of hope in the face of heartbreaking loss.
This is a story of friendship, family, grief and legacy.
