Nature has a way of bringing men back to themselves - back to a steadier breath, clearer thinking and a stronger sense of who they are. Our Pay-It-Forward Events create opportunities for men and groups, including veterans, those in addiction recovery and those working for blue-light services across the UK to experience this in a supportive, grounded and practical way.
Funded by corporate Empower Events, these nature-based experiences offer space to strengthen resilience, build mental fitness, deepen self-awareness and reconnect with what helps them thrive. No pressure. No performance. Just real conversations, shared effort and time outdoors with good men.
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What These Events Offer
Empower Events in nature
Our Pay-It-Forward Events are built around the same Five Core Experiences we use with organisations, adapted for men who want to reset, recalibrate and step back into their lives with clarity:
🌿 Reset Space
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Gentle grounding practices, breathwork and time in nature to calm the body and centre the mind.
🏔️ Summit
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Movement, shared challenge and time side-by-side - the place where honest conversations start to unfold.
🔥 Forge
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Fire, food and focused roles that build competence, confidence and a sense of belonging.
💧 Tempering
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Cold-water immersion or other controlled stress techniques to build composure, courage and inner steadiness.
🧭 Compass
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Values, direction and momentum - practical steps that help men walk back into their lives with purpose.
These experiences aren’t therapy sessions, but they are therapeutic. Men leave feeling clearer, more grounded and more connected to themselves and others.
Who These Events Are For
Pay-It-Forward Events are open to men who feel they would benefit from a nature-based experience designed to strengthen mental fitness and resilience.
Men attend for many different reasons:
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Wanting a reset
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Feeling disconnected
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Needing time to think
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Seeking a sense of direction
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Wanting community without pressure
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Wanting to feel like themselves again
We accept referrals from medical professionals and recognised organisations, including veterans’ charities, addiction recovery services, blue-light services and charities that work with men. These referrals help ensure men across different communities can access experiences that genuinely support their wellbeing and momentum in life.
There are no expectations and no assumptions - just a space that helps men step towards something healthier and more grounded.
How It Works
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Stand Tall CIC operates on a simple, sustainable model that keeps these experiences accessible while maintaining the highest quality.
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Corporate Empower Events cover part of the cost through a Pay-It-Forward model.
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The remaining funding comes from a combination of grant support and contributions from referring organisations and contributions from attendees.
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This blended model allows us to offer nature-based experiences that are affordable, inclusive and built around what genuinely helps men strengthen resilience, clarity and connection.
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Each event is:
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Led by experienced, therapists and trauma-informed facilitators
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Held in natural environments in The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales
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Designed to be challenging in the right way, never overwhelming
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Focused on connection, confidence and real momentum
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You don’t have to be fit, outdoorsy or experienced. You just need to show up.
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Join a Pay-It-Forward Event
If you’d like to attend a Pay-It-Forward Event or register your interest, you can join the list below. We’ll be in touch with upcoming dates, locations and details.
What Men Say
"If inside your head is racing with problems or you have strong feelings of anger, shame, guilt, sadness, whatever, this is a perfect opportunity to calm those thoughts and feelings through the power of nature and experienced guidance." Harry
"At the start of the day I was stuck in my own head and over-thinking things. By the end of the day, I was calm and collected and was able to be present in the day and remember to just concentrate on that moment." Andrew
"I gained a new way of taking control with the breathing exercises and the cold swim. I felt a sense of peace, a better connection with the outdoors, and tools to be able to stabilise myself internally and be more present in the moment." Peter
find out more about stand tall cic
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be really fit to take part? No. The day is designed to be accessible for all men. The walk is steady, the activities are low-pressure, and you can take things at your own pace.
Do I have to go in the cold water? Not at all. The cold-water dip is offered as a supported challenge, but it’s your choice. You can take part in other ways, and you’ll still get the benefits of the day.
Do I need to bring anything? Yes. Bring suitable outdoor clothing for the weather - including waterproofs and warm layers. You'll need sturdy footwear with a good grip - preferably walking boots. You'll also need swimwear and a towel if you want to try the cold-water immersion. Old trainers or water shoes will protect your feet and make it more comfortable to get in the water It would also be a good idea to bring a change of clothes. Everything else (fire kit, food, drinks) will be provided.
I don’t know anyone else coming - is that OK? Absolutely. Many men come on their own. The way the day is structured means you’ll naturally connect with others through shared activities and conversation.
What if I feel nervous or uncertain about joining? That’s normal. Many men do. You’ll be welcomed, and there’s no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with. The day is about being yourself, not performing or competing.
What happens if the weather is bad? We’ll carry on - the woodland provides cover, and we’ll have access to an indoor space. There's also the fire. The day is about being in nature whatever it brings, which can be powerful in itself.
Is food included? Yes. We’ll prepare and cook food together as part of the day. It’s simple, hearty, and shared around the fire. Let us know if you have any dietary requirements or allergies.
Who is this for? These days are for men who want to step away from routine, reconnect with themselves, and recharge outdoors. You don’t need any previous experience, just a willingness to take part.
How many people will be there? Groups are kept deliberately small (usually 8–12 men) to make sure the day feels safe, connected, and supportive.
What will I leave with? Men say they leave feeling calmer, clearer, and more grounded - with a lighter head, a steadier body, and a reminder that they don’t have to stay silent.
WHO ARE WE?
The event is being run by me, Stephen Hall, along with Lee Irving of Wellbeing by SEE Events. Both Lee and I have extensive experience of working with men. We are both trained and qualified therapists and have experience of working outdoors.
