True North
Project

About True North

True North is a fully funded project by Farmstead Adventure Hub CIC, created to help men (18+) in Barnsley build mental and physical resilience. It was inspired by our dear friend, Farmer Phillip Charlesworth 78, who we sadly lost to suicide in October 2024. In his memory, we’re committed to supporting men who are struggling—because no one should face tough times alone.

This isn’t counselling, nature takes care of that. Expect good company, a warm meal, and the chance to pick up some new skills. Let’s get back on track and find our True North.

What We Do

We offer hands-on outdoor experiences to help men reconnect, recharge, and grow. Whether it's learning bushcraft, cooking outdoors, foraging, or just sharing stories around a campfire, True North is about building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Our Mission

We want to break down barriers to mental health support and lower suicide rates to zero. Through outdoor challenges and shared experiences, we help men regain confidence, forge strong connections, and rediscover purpose.

True North isn’t just a programme—it’s a brotherhood. Men looking out for men.

We would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to Barnsley's Mental Health Innovation fund that have allowed this project to continue.

Experience The True North Programme

Programme Details:

Eligibility Criteria: Men only
Cost: Funded
Location: Broad Close Farm, Silkstone Barnsley S75 4LY

Dates (Thursdays)

Thurs (April) - 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th

Thurs (May) - 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th

Thurs (June) 6th, 13th

Times 1900 - 2030 (ish)

Itinerary (the plan) Thursday evenings

3rd April - Bushcraft (fire making & safety) and Archery - Camp fire meal

10th April - Bushcraft (Shelters and knots), Axe Throwing - Camp fire meal

17th April - Navigation Walk - Countryside walk

24th April - Bushcraft Campfire cooking and meal.

1st May - Bushcraft (animal tracking), - Camp fire meal

8th May - Traditional skills, spoon carving, whittling - Camp fire meal

15th May - Rural Skills, hedge planting - Camp fire meal

22nd May - Knife & Axe skills (sharpening and whittling) - Camp fire meal

29th May - Navigation nature walk/Exped prep - Map reading basics

6th June - Traditional food preservation -smoking, drying meats

13th June - Navigation walk - Map reading basics.

Sundays

20th April - Bushcraft and Campfire Breakfast

18th May - Camp fire breakfast - Outdoor Activities

15th June - Rural and traditional skills

This will keep us going for now. I want to emphasise that everyone (Barnsley men) is welcome. This isn’t counselling, and no referral is needed to join. If attending helps brighten your day, then we’ve achieved our goal.

Free to attend - We do require you to book, this will allow us to purchase the right amount of food and prevent food waste. Don't worry if you cant make it, just please let us know.

Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear required.

Book on

#WeAreResiliant

Farmstead Adventure
Hub CIC

Farmstead Adventure Hub CIC

Farmstead Adventure Hub is a Community Interest Company dedicated to empowering children, families, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. We provide tailored programs for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), offering enriching after-school provisions and holiday camps that foster growth, skills, and joy. Our services also extend to children and adults from disadvantaged backgrounds, bridging gaps through mentorship and resources in a safe, supportive space.

We are committed to supporting mental health, offering a safe

peaceful environment and activities that nurture emotional

well-being. Our community initiatives focus on reducing isolation

and fostering connections, ensuring no one feels alone.

Additionally, we offer servicemen and their families respite and

experience days, providing them with much-needed support.

At Farmstead Adventure Hub, we aim to create a more inclusive,

resilient community where everyone feels valued and

empowered to thrive. Together, we’re building a brighter,

more unified future.

True North Project