Twenty-one fundraisers have faced burning hot coals, broken glass and an unusual arrow-breaking challenge to raise more than £3,540 for Swindon domestic abuse charity Society Without Abuse.
The charity’s Firewalk 2026 saw participants put their nerves to the test during an evening designed to raise money and awareness for those affected by domestic abuse.
Held at Swindon Cricket Club, the event was about more than simply walking across hot coals. Organisers wanted participants to reflect on some of the feelings experienced by people living with or leaving abusive relationships, including fear, uncertainty and the courage needed to make a change.
For the 21 people who signed up, it proved to be an evening full of surprises.
Broken glass, arrows and burning hot coals
Before anyone stepped onto the fire, participants attended an empowerment workshop led by professional firewalking instructor Keith from Steps For You Firewalking.
The session was designed to build confidence and prepare the group for the challenges ahead.
However, the walkers soon discovered that hot coals were not the only obstacle they would be facing.
Their first surprise involved walking barefoot across broken glass, followed by an arrow-breaking challenge in which participants used pressure against their throats to snap an arrow.
Having completed both activities under professional supervision, the group headed outside for the main event.
With the coals reaching temperatures of up to 1,200°F, approximately 649°C, the fundraisers took turns walking barefoot across the fire while receiving encouragement from fellow participants and spectators.
For some, it was an opportunity to overcome a personal fear. For others, the motivation came from wanting to support a charity that helps families across Swindon.
One participant, Candace, described the experience as something she would not forget.
“The Firewalk was so empowering, I absolutely loved it and the workshop with Keith was so much more than what I expected, he was amazing. The glass walk and arrow break were surprises on the night and it was so motivating to have conquered those before we stepped out onto the hot coals.”
She explained that supporting Society Without Abuse was particularly important to her.
“Without charities like SWA, families across Swindon wouldn’t be able to move forwards safely from domestic abuse. I wanted to do the Firewalk as a way to show my appreciation of the services they offer and raise money for the services to continue.”
More than £3,540 raised for Swindon charity
The event has already generated more than £3,540 for Society Without Abuse, with additional donations expected to increase the final total.
The money will support the charity’s work with individuals and families affected by domestic abuse, alongside its prevention, education and early intervention programmes.
Kate Rowland, CEO of Society Without Abuse, said the determination shown by participants reflected the wider purpose behind the event.
“Every person who took part in the Firewalk helped us shine a light on domestic abuse and raise vital funds to support our work. It takes courage to step onto hot coals, but for people experiencing abuse, finding the courage to seek help and rebuild their lives can be an enormous challenge.”
She added: “The evening was a wonderful display of power, determination and achievement, supporting a vital purpose to raise funds to support our work to end domestic abuse through prevention, early intervention and education.”
The event also provided entertainment for those who preferred to keep their feet away from the flames.
A Lego Walk attracted participants and spectators of different ages, while local food businesses Samosas2Go and Gourmet 58 provided refreshments throughout the evening.
Kate thanked everyone who helped make the fundraiser possible, including the venue and local businesses.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who walked, donated and supported the event, including Swindon Cricket Club for lending us their clubhouse and pitch, as well as our food vendors who fuelled our walkers with the best tasting samosas and burgers in Swindon!”
She confirmed that donations were continuing to come in.
“So far, the walk has raised over £3,540 for SWA, with more expected in the next week. Everyone’s support and generosity will help us continue working towards a future free from domestic abuse.”
Supporting families across Swindon for more than 50 years
Society Without Abuse has been helping people affected by domestic abuse in Swindon since 1974, when the organisation was originally established as Swindon Women’s Aid.
Over the past five decades, its services have developed to support individuals and families through a range of programmes.
Alongside specialist support for survivors, the charity works with children and young people, helping them understand healthy relationships and recognise harmful behaviour.
It also provides training for businesses and employers, helping organisations identify potential signs of domestic abuse and understand how to support affected staff.
Its Open2Change programme works with people who have concerns about their own behaviour within relationships, aiming to prevent further harm.
Fundraising remains an important part of maintaining these services, with the charity also operating a volunteer-run shop in The Parade, Swindon, which welcomes donations of good-quality items.
Events such as the Firewalk provide an opportunity to raise money while encouraging conversations about an issue that can often remain hidden behind closed doors.
Where to get help with domestic abuse in Swindon
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone they know, can contact specialist services for confidential advice and support.
Swindon Domestic Abuse Helpline: 01793 610610
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24 hours): 0808 2000 247
More information about the charity and its services can be found on the Society Without Abuse website.
Anyone in immediate danger should call 999.
