Taking the Leap: Abseiling for a Brighter Future in Kirklees

abseilers 2026

Stepping over the edge of a 77-metre tower is not something most people would call a normal day—but for seven incredible individuals, it was all part of making a difference.

Recently, a group of brave fundraisers took on the ultimate challenge: abseiling down the iconic Wainhouse Tower in Halifax. Known as the tallest folly in the world, the tower stands at a towering 77 metres high, making it a daunting climb up—and an even more exhilarating descent down.

Together, these seven adventurers raised an incredible £1,500.

That’s £1,500 that will go directly towards supporting disadvantaged children, young people, and families across Kirklees.

Making a Real Impact

At Fresh Futures, we know that behind every donation is an opportunity to change a life. The funds raised from this challenge will help provide vital support—whether that’s through mentoring, youth services, wellbeing support, or creating safe spaces for young people to grow and thrive.

For many of the individuals and families we support, access to the right help at the right time can make all the difference. Fundraising events like this ensure we can continue delivering that support where it’s needed most.

Thank You

To our incredible abseilers: thank you for your courage.
To everyone who donated and supported: thank you for your generosity.

You’ve helped us continue our mission of supporting children, families, and young people across Kirklees—and for that, we are truly grateful.

Watch the video below to see how the day went! 🎥 Video produced by Rupert Cooke at Ai Sight Creative

This is how Nurture in Nature wellbeing event went🌱…

lined up painted birdboxes - Liz Baker Phography

Sometimes the most meaningful change starts with something simple – gloves pulled on, sleeves rolled up, and people coming together with a shared purpose.

volunteer clearing plant beds - Picture by Liz Baker Photography

That was the feeling at Fresh Futures’ Nurture in Nature wellbeing gardening event. What began as an overgrown outdoor space quickly became a place of connection, creativity and care, thanks to the collective efforts of our volunteers, partners and young people.

From the moment people arrived, there was a real sense of togetherness. Some headed straight for the garden beds, getting stuck into weeding and preparing the soil. Others carefully planted new flowers and greenery, imagining how the space would look once the warmer months arrive. There was no rush – just steady work, conversation and the occasional pause to admire progress.

Volunteers Weeding - Picture by Liz Baker Photography
volunteers painting birdhouses pink - Picture by Liz Baker Photography

Alongside the gardening, one of the most colourful parts of the day was painting birdhouses. These had been thoughtfully made by students from Brian Jackson College, and volunteers took great care adding bright colours and individual touches. Paintbrushes were swapped, ideas shared, and plenty of laughter followed as each birdhouse took on its own personality.

What made Nurture in Nature truly special was the mix of people involved. Volunteers and colleagues from Arriva, Cummins, Yorkshire Building Society, Switalski Solicitors and UK Greetings worked side by side, joined by Fresh Futures staff and volunteers.

Fresh Futures volunteers and partners sat around the table in the garden

“It’s really nice to give back a little bit…It’s also therapeutic to get outside and get some sunshine…It’s like an oasis of peace in Huddersfield Town centre and it’s lovely to be a part of it” said a volunteer.

By the end of the day, the transformation was clear. What had once felt neglected was now vibrant and welcoming. Freshly planted flowers, cleared beds and colourful birdhouses all told a story of care and collaboration.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part – to our partners, volunteers and the students from Brian Jackson College. Nurture in Nature was more than a gardening event; it was a reminder of the strength of community and the positive impact we can create when we take time to care, connect and grow together. We look forward to hosting more events like this in the future!

Pictures taken by Liz Baker Photography

A Tough Mudder Triumph!

Three weeks ago, eight brave volunteers took on the Yorkshire Tough Mudder 5k for Fresh Futures! Including team members from UK Greetings and Leach, raising vital funds to support disadvantaged and vulnerable children, young people and families in our community!

Braving mud pits, electric shock wires, and challenging obstacles, the team powered through with determination and teamwork, crossing the finish line in high spirits!

Fresh Futures extends heartfelt thanks to all involved for their incredible effort, and collectively fundraising over £1,250 for Fresh Futures!

Here are some highlights from the day:

Three smiling participants stand together after completing an outdoor race, proudly wearing medals around their necks and matching black athletic gear. Two of them wear orange headbands and hold drinks, while a large event banner with a flame design serves as the backdrop.
Two race finishers stand side by side on a grassy field, smiling with medals around their necks. One wears a green headband and patterned black tank top, the other an orange headband and dark green shirt. Metal barriers and event banners with the Tough Mudder logo are in the background
Participants in a Tough Mudder event climb a large metal structure covered with ropes, while others tackle the steep wooden wall at its base. Some people are already near the top, while others struggle upward, covered in mud. A woman in a black hoodie watches from the foreground as flags mark the course on the grassy field.
The image shows a large field, showing an obstacle course race taking part. In the distance you can see an orange obstacle, as well as a row of people all heading away from the camera.

Fancy taking on this challenge next year? Email us at [email protected] today!