A Staffordshire bushcraft organisation supported by adventurer and television presenter Ben Fogle is calling on local businesses to help expand its work with veterans, emergency service personnel and women.
Staffordshire Bushcraft was founded by former Staffordshire Regiment infantry soldier Michael Vaughan and runs around 13 woodland sessions each year at the Sandon Hall Estate, near Stone.
The sessions cover navigation, foraging, fire lighting, land management and survival skills, but Michael says the wider aim is to build confidence and support mental health and wellbeing.
The 47-year-old, from Stoke-on-Trent, is also living with stage four inoperable cancer and has invested his pension in developing the not-for-profit Community Interest Company.
Reserved places are offered to armed forces veterans, former police, fire and ambulance personnel, and women taking part in its Women in the Wild programme.
Michael said: “We see these as life-enhancing experiences rather than workshops.
“We receive valuable support in kind from Ben Fogle, Buffalo Systems and Deerhunter, but more financial backing would allow us to provide additional free places and activities.”
Businesses supporting the organisation can also take part in team-building days in the Staffordshire countryside.
Previous backing has come from the Veterans Association charity, Stoke-on-Trent veterans’ business Black Onyx and companies donating outdoor equipment.
Supporter John Adams, of A&C Contractors, said: “Michael is a real force for good and deserves the support of the local business community.
“Many former military and emergency service personnel struggle with PTSD and adapting to life outside the routines they once knew.
“Any financial support, equipment or practical help could make a genuine difference.”
