Walking for Mental Health
Kaylee & Andy Take Strides for Bottled Up Blokes
At Carysil UK, we’re proud not only of the products we design, but of the people who make our team so special. This month, we’re celebrating Kaylee and Andy, who took on a 16-mile walk from Cromford to Pinxton in support of the local men’s mental health charity, Bottled Up Blokes.
We’re honoured to have sponsored them on this journey and to share their story.
Why They Walked
For Kaylee, the decision to take on this challenge was simple but powerful.
“If by walking a few miles I can raise some money and potentially help someone, then that’s enough inspiration for me to give it a go.”
The cause holds personal meaning for her. The charity is based close to home and works directly in the communities she cares about most.
“It’s very local to me and helps men in the surrounding areas where I live. The walk was actually organised by my brother-in-law, who runs a local micro pub and is really involved in fundraising for the charity.”
The Challenge: Cromford to Pinxton
The route covered 16 miles, starting in Cromford and ending at The Hop In, the micro pub that played a central role in organising the event. While Kaylee admits she didn’t follow a training plan, she stayed positive and hoped her everyday fitness would see her through.
“I thought the toughest part might be the middle, when you’re already tired but still have a long way to go. But the energy and atmosphere on the day really carried us forward.”
And carry them it did, alongside supporters, fellow fundraisers, and even representatives from the charity itself.
About Bottled Up Blokes
Bottled Up Blokes is a grassroots men’s mental health charity providing safe, supportive spaces for men to open up, talk, and connect. They run weekly meetings across several local venues, five-a-side football sessions, and team-building activity days, all aimed at breaking the stigma around men’s mental health.
“They rely solely on fundraising,” Kaylee explains. “The money we raised goes towards covering venue costs and running these much-needed activities.”
Though Kaylee hasn’t personally used their services, she walked alongside the people who run the charity and witness the difference they’re making first-hand.
An Incredible Fundraising Effort
The walk raised an incredible £17,000+, thanks to the generosity of local businesses, friends, families, and individuals who saw the value of the cause.
“The team at Carysil have been brilliant—sponsoring the walk and asking lots of questions about the charity. It’s been really encouraging to have that level of support at work.”
She also received overwhelmingly positive responses from her wider community, which has helped to spread awareness of Bottled Up Blokes even further.
A Message That Matters
For Kaylee, this walk was about more than raising money, it was about making sure people know that support is out there.
“I have a young son, so charities like this, specifically for men are so important. They can support the next generation too.”
When asked what advice she’d give to others thinking about taking part in a charity event, her response is full of warmth and encouragement:
“Just go for it. Any way you can get involved will help the charity. It’ll make you feel good to help others, and you never know just how much your effort (big or small) could change someone’s life.”
And what does she hope people take from her story?
“There’s always someone to talk to. Never be afraid to ask for help. And if you can, encourage others to do the same. This charity proves how much support is really out there.”
Supporting Local, Supporting Each Other
At Carysil UK, we believe in lifting one another up, not just in our workplace, but in our communities too. We’re incredibly proud to have supported both Kaylee and Andy, and we look forward to seeing how Bottled Up Blokes continues to grow and make a difference.
To find out more about Bottled Up Blokes, visit: https://bottledupblokes.org