True North
Project

Farmstead Adventure Hub CIC 

True North: A Resilience Programme for Men in Barnsley, South Yorkshire

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Discover True North

The True North programme is a unique, fully funded (4 week pilot programme) experience designed for men building their mental and physical resilience through traditional and modern day outdoor activities.  This funded four week programme is for men  (aged 18+) who live in Barnsley that would benefit from some rest and recouperation.  

Throughout the programme, you’ll reconnect with nature, develop bushcraft skills, and grow both inner strength and practical abilities in the great outdoors. Each week blends powerful resilience-building activities with survival skills, outdoor cooking, and bushcraft essentials. Here’s what each week has in store:

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Programme 

Week 1: Back to the Wild - 28th November 2024
Reconnect with Nature and Begin the Journey

We kick off with an immersive outdoor experience, introducing you to the basics of wilderness living. You’ll participate in mindfulness exercises in nature, and introductory bushcraft activities like shelter building, spoon carving and campfire cooking.  3 hours of learning a new craft in the peaceful South Yorkshire countryside.  lunch cooked on the campfire situated whilst tuning into nature. 

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Week 2: Mastering Traditional Skills and Resilience 5th December 2024 
Strengthening Body and Mind Through Outdoor Skills

This week, we dive into traditional bushcraft skills, focusing on survival basics that build resilience and adaptability. Learn fire-making techniques, rope and knot work, dry stone wall building, and safe use of tools to construct shelters and simple outdoor structures. You’ll also practice resilience exercises, developing mental strength to manage stress and navigate change. Each session fosters focus, patience, and confidence.

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Week 3: Living from the Land 12th December 2024
Foraging, Outdoor Cooking, and Self-Sufficiency

Week three is all about living from the land and gaining self-reliance. We’ll explore edible plants, foraging techniques, and how to safely purify water. Together, we’ll prepare meals outdoors, using natural ingredients and open-flame cooking techniques. Sharing meals we’ve gathered and cooked in the wild reinforces teamwork, gratitude, and a sense of accomplishment.

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Week 4: Bushcraft Fundamentals 19th December 2024
Advanced Wilderness Skills and Reflecting on the Journey

Our final week centres on advanced bushcraft skills to prepare you for future adventures. We’ll delve into navigation techniques, advanced fire-starting methods, and crafting tools from natural materials. This week also provides time for reflection and goal setting, as we consolidate the skills and resilience we’ve built together, preparing for life beyond the programme.

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True North Mission Statement ​

"Our mission is to build mental and physical resilience in men in Barnsley, aiming to reduce suicide rates to zero, by providing opportunities for growth, connection, and support through outdoor activities. By engaging participants in bushcraft, survival skills, traditional crafts, and adventurous challenges, we create a safe, empowering environment where men can develop confidence, strengthen bonds, and find a sense of purpose, while improving their mental well-being and overall resilience."