Breaking the ice for men’s mental health

From 1st January, 2026, a unique partnership between a hospice charity and a cold-water therapy charity will be increasing men’s awareness of and access to therapeutic, nature-connection activities in communities across England.

Through a shared ambition to produce positive mental health benefits for men, Dorothy House and Icebreakers are kicking off 2026 with a New Year’s Day group cold water immersion, breath and movement practice, sauna and wellbeing session. Their ongoing partnership aims to offer fellowship and connection in order to benefit men’s experience of caring, grief and bereavement.

With IceBreaker Chapters across the UK, in Bath, Brighton, London and Bristol, the growing network will be supported by Dorothy House Hospice Care’s specialist bereavement training, alongside light touch, open access support for any men caring for loved ones at the end of life, or any men who have experienced grief and bereavement.

“IceBreakers exists because too many men feel they have to carry things alone. Cold water, movement and time in nature give us a way in – a shared experience that opens the door to connection and conversation. Working with Dorothy House allows us to offer that support with greater care and understanding for men navigating grief, loss or the reality of caring for someone at the end of life.

This partnership is about meeting men where they are, creating spaces that feel safe, grounded and human and making sure that support is free, accessible and available in the community.” Ric Baldock, Director, IceBreakers.

New Year’s Day Dip

Thursday, 1st January 9:30-11:30
IceBreakers New Year’s Day Dip Tickets,

Warleigh Weir, Ferry Ln, Claverton, Bath BA2 7BH

What3words > ///month.chill.soon

Extended movement and breathwork session with IceBreaker founder, Arron Collins-Thomas (Owner of TONIQ, PT and Qigong instructor), free sauna, camp stove brekkie and, of course, the dip in the river Avon.

A society where death is part of life

“We are really excited to be able to work together with IceBreakers to build awareness and deliver bereavement support in communities across the country, through our specialist training and open access, wellbeing resources.” James Byron, Director of Engagement.

For the past 50 years, hospice charity, Dorothy House has provided free, personalised palliative and end of life care to thousands of people, combining excellent care with practical and emotional support.

The partnership with IceBreakers offers a unique opportunity to offer therapeutic interventions for men encountering mental distress due to pre-bereavement and bereavement.