overview
Trail Ahead is a nature-based, small-group programme for men living with or recovering from cancer, designed to help rebuild confidence, connection and a sense of direction.
​​
Trail Ahead takes a different approach. Through walking, bushcraft and practical outdoor skills, nature connection and shared activity, men spend time alongside others who understand something of the experience of cancer, allowing conversation and connection to develop naturally.
​
There is no pressure to share more than feels comfortable. The programme combines purposeful activity, gentle movement, time to reflect and shared experience in a supportive, down-to-earth environment.
Whether you're navigating treatment, adjusting to life afterwards or living with uncertainty about what comes next, Trail Ahead offers space to regroup, reconnect and find a way forward.
​
Programmes are delivered as either a six-week course (one 2.5-hour session per week) or a condensed two-day programme for those unable to attend weekly.
Why Trail Ahead?
Not everyone finds it easy, or helpful, to sit in a room and talk about what they're going through.
​
Trail Ahead offers another way. Walking, bushcraft, practical outdoor skills and doing things alongside other men can create space for conversation and connection to happen naturally, without pressure to share.
​
The programme draws on Phil's extensive background in the Royal Marines, expedition leadership and outdoor skills. Activities such as navigation, fire lighting, shelter building and campcraft aren't simply things to do; they create opportunities to learn, problem-solve, work alongside others and rebuild confidence through doing.
​
Trail Ahead adapts practical principles from expedition and military environments; preparation, teamwork, navigating uncertainty, adapting when circumstances change and regrouping when the "original route no longer works" to the very different experience of cancer.
​
Combined with Phil's own lived experience of cancer, it's about recognising what you can control, taking the next manageable step and finding a way forward when the route has changed, without having to navigate it alone.
What a session might include
Arrival & informal catch-up
-
Time outdoors and nature connection
-
Walking or practical outdoor activity
-
Shared task or challenge
-
Rest, reflection & shared food
-
Closing check-in
What’s included
-
Small group (6–10 men)
-
Experienced, trauma-aware facilitation
-
All equipment provided
-
Refreshments
-
Shared outdoor lunch
This could be for you if:
-
You are a man living with cancer, receiving treatment or adjusting to life afterwards
-
You are living with uncertainty, reduced confidence or changes following cancer
-
You would value time away from everyday pressures to reset and gain perspective
-
You prefer connecting through shared activity rather than a traditional support-group setting
-
You are open to spending time outdoors and alongside other men with shared experience
This may not be suitable if:
-
You require close or intensive medical supervision
-
Your current health makes light outdoor activity unsuitable
​
If you're unsure whether Trail Ahead is right for you, please get in touch, and we'll be happy to talk it through.
Accessibility & medical note
Trail Ahead includes walking, practical outdoor activities and extended time outdoors. Activities can be adapted where possible.​
​
Trail Ahead is a non-clinical programme and is not a substitute for medical care.
Beyond the programme
Trail Ahead doesn’t have to end after the final session.
​
Participants can stay connected through the developing Wild Roots alumni community, with opportunities to join follow-up walks, outdoor activities, conservation and community days, and occasional gatherings.
​
Alumni overnight experiences will offer time to reconnect, spend longer outdoors together and reflect on the journey since completing the programme.
​
Over time, some alumni may also choose to support activities and welcome men joining future Wild Roots programmes.
where
Trail Ahead takes place in carefully selected outdoor settings across Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and surrounding areas.
​
See BOOKINGS PAGE for dates and locations.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE
Get in touch so we can start working together.
Thank you, we will be in touch shortly
