Black Dog Outdoors
Black Dog Outdoors run local events for people who struggle with mental health and wellbeing. These events are free for attendees. All our activities are outdoors, thereby reconnecting people with nature, and include walking, climbing, cycling, bouldering, and paddle sports. Our events are run by our own dedicated team of volunteers, all of whom are qualified professionals and Mental Health First Aiders.

Our work in suicide prevention
Providing a service that can help with suicide prevention means a lot to Blackdog Outdoors. Some of our team have lived experience of suicide. We are also aware that middle aged men are particularly at risk of suicide. With increasing research suggesting that by establishing positive connections and increasing social activity more opportunities can be made available to allow those at risk to communicate openly in a safe environment. This has a significant impact on men and helps reduce the stigma surrounding men’s mental health discussions.
Our projects, such as the one in Harrogate and Craven, aim to address these difficulties for all members of society. We are keen to support all those affected across the UK by connecting with local networks to allow for referrals for those in need. Participating in outdoor activities can improve mental health helping with:
> Better sleep.
> Happier mood – physical exercise helps release feel-good hormones.
> Physical exercise releases cortisol which helps manage stress.
> Being physically active can also be a form of mindfulness giving your brain something to focus on and can make you feel better about yourself as you improve and meet your goals.
> Reduces the risk of depression.
> Making new friends, group or team activities can help you meet new and like-minded people.

Our current priorities
Based in Harrogate, Skipton, and the surrounding areas, our current project provides outdoor activities for small groups, offering tailored sessions in paddlesports, hill walking, climbing, and hill skills. These activities include practical skills such as equipment use, techniques, map reading, and compass navigation. Local providers are involved to enhance the team and support the community.
Feedback from participants in existing programs plays a key role in shaping the initiative, gathered through face-to-face conversations, surveys, and testimonials. Many of the volunteer team members are former participants who, after gaining valuable skills through the program, chose to give back by volunteering. Additionally, several trustees have firsthand experience of the benefits of outdoor “green” exercise, further enriching the project with their insight.

Our current challenges
The role of the suicide prevention officer is brand new to the MPS. This has meant that suicide prevention policies have had to be written from scratch.
