Centred Scotland CEO to take on Halloween firewalk for mental health

The chief executive of Centred Scotland is preparing to walk barefoot across hot coals in Inverness this Halloween to raise funds and awareness for mental health support across the Highlands.

David Brookfield will take part in The Inverness Firewalk on Saturday 31 October, joining supporters who are stepping outside their comfort zones for causes close to their hearts.

He will be joined by Jess McWhinney, a supporter of Centred’s Clarity Walks, which offers free walks in nature to help reduce isolation and support mental and physical wellbeing.

The Inverness Firewalk 2026 takes place at 6pm on Saturday 31 October at Falcon Square, Inverness (IV2 3PP). The event is also supporting Maggie’s Highlands and local charity The Archie Foundation. Some participants, including Jess, will be taking part in fancy dress, and spectators, friends and family are welcome to come along and cheer them on.

Finding community through Clarity Walks

Jess McWhinney said:

“A year ago, I moved to Inverness and didn’t know anyone. Through Clarity Walks, I’ve met so many lovely people, explored beautiful places across the area, and discovered something that has genuinely improved both my mental and physical health.

“Today, I have a community. I’m taking on this personal challenge to raise funds for Clarity Walks so that people can continue to benefit from the incredible work they do.”

Supporting mental health across the Highlands

David Brookfield, CEO of Centred Scotland, said:

“As CEO of Centred, I’ve seen first-hand the profound impact that good mental health support can have on people’s lives. It can help people recover, build resilience and realise their potential. Every day, I see the positive difference our staff and volunteers make.

“Compassionate mental health and wellbeing support matters because our mental health can affect every part of our lives — our relationships, our work and our ability to take part in our communities. Mental health affects all of us, whether through our own experiences or those of family, friends, colleagues or neighbours.

“Taking part in the Firewalk is my way of supporting Centred while challenging myself to do something completely outside my comfort zone. The money raised will help us provide support that can make a lasting, positive difference to people’s lives. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help.”

You can read David’s full story and donate here:

www.justgiving.com/campaign/centred-ceo-david-brookfield-firewalk

You can read Jess’s full story and donate to Clarity Walks here:

www.justgiving.com/campaign/jess-firewalk-for-clarity-walk

Media enquiries

For media enquiries, please contact Christine Butchart at christine.butchart@centred.scot or Alana Kotrys at alana.kotrys@centred.scot.

About Centred Scotland

Centred Scotland is a mental health charity supporting people across the Highlands through services including Centred, Discovery College and Clarity Walks. For almost 40 years, the organisation has helped people improve their wellbeing, build confidence, reduce isolation, and live fuller lives.

Website: https://centred.scot/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/centredscot

Instagram: www.instagram.com/centred.scot/