Prepping with Disabilities or Chronic Illness in Mind: A UKSN Guide to Inclusive Preparedness

When we think about prepping and bushcraft, the image that often comes to mind is someone trekking through the wilderness with a rucksack and an axe, living off the land without a care in the world. But the reality for many in the UKSN community is far broader and more diverse. Prepping is not just about the physically strong or able-bodied; it’s about building resilience for everyone.

Living with a disability or chronic illness doesn’t make you any less capable of preparing for emergencies, getting outdoors, or becoming more self-sufficient. In fact, thoughtful preparation can be even more vital for those who face extra daily challenges.

This guide looks at how members of UKSN can adapt prepping, camping and bushcraft skills to suit different abilities, ensuring that no one is left out when it comes to being ready for whatever life throws our way.

Understanding Your Own Needs & Disabilities

Prepping starts with knowing your circumstances. If you live with a disability or a long-term health condition, the first step is to be realistic and honest about what you can do and what you might need help with.

Ask yourself:

• What are your main daily challenges?

• What essential medical equipment or medication do you rely on?

• Are there mobility issues that could make evacuation or bugging out harder?

• How much support do you have from family, friends or your local UKSN Charter?

Having a clear idea of your unique needs will help you plan more effectively, and give you the confidence to tackle practical skills that work for you, not just the average prepper.

Building a Practical Emergency Kit

A good grab bag is vital for everyone, but for people with extra medical needs it needs to be even more personalised.

Here are some things to consider including:

• Medications: Always have at least a week’s supply of essential medication stored securely. Use labelled containers and check expiry dates regularly. If your medication needs to be kept cool, consider battery-powered coolers or insulated bags.

• Medical documents: Keep printed copies of prescriptions, care plans and important medical contacts in a waterproof folder.

• Mobility aids: If you use a wheelchair, walking frame or sticks, plan how you would take these with you or adapt routes in an evacuation. Lightweight, foldable versions might be useful.

• Energy management: If fatigue is a daily reality, pack energy-dense snacks and plenty of water. Small luxuries like a camping seat or inflatable mat can make resting easier outdoors.

• Communication: For anyone with speech or hearing difficulties, having a notepad or text-to-speech device could be invaluable in an emergency situation.

• Personal comforts: Include items that help you stay calm, like a favourite blanket, stress ball or other sensory items.

Everyday Resilience at Home

Not every emergency needs to end with you running for the hills. Most likely, you’ll shelter at home during bad weather, power cuts or supply shortages. This is where prepping really pays off.

Stock up gradually on tinned food, bottled water and other essentials that fit your dietary needs. If cooking is tiring, choose foods that are easy to prepare with minimal effort.

Backup power options like power stations for mobility scooters or medical devices are worth the investment. Solar chargers or crank-powered radios can help you stay connected during power cuts.

Don’t forget to plan for carers too. If you rely on someone visiting daily, make sure they know your emergency plans and that you have a backup in case they can’t reach you.

Getting Outdoors: Adapting Bushcraft Skills

One of the best things about being part of UKSN is the shared love for the outdoors. Whether you’re wild camping, practising fire lighting or joining a Charter meet, there’s room for everyone to enjoy nature safely.

• Choose accessible sites: Many campsites now have disabled-friendly facilities, including accessible toilets, level pitches and parking nearby.

• Use adaptive gear: There’s plenty of outdoor kit designed for different mobility needs, like easy-grip tools, lightweight cooking gear and portable seating.

• Work at your own pace: If your condition limits your energy, plan shorter activities with longer breaks. It’s not about doing everything at once, but enjoying time outdoors without overdoing it.

• Buddy up: Attending UKSN events with a friend, family member or another Charter member means you’ll have support if you need it. Many tasks, like fire building or shelter setup, can be shared.

• Learn what works: Adapt traditional bushcraft skills to suit your abilities. For example, if heavy chopping is out of the question, practise safe fire-lighting using smaller sticks or pre-cut kindling.

Mutual Assistance and UKSN Charters

One of UKSN’s greatest strengths is the Charter system - local groups of members who support each other. If you have a disability or chronic illness, your Charter can be a vital source of help.

Charter members can assist with transport to events, check in during bad weather or power cuts, and help you practise skills at your own pace. In return, you’ll bring your own knowledge and strengths to the group. Prepping is never a solo hobby; it’s about community and shared resilience.

Mental Health and Confidence

Living with a disability or health condition can bring extra worries. It’s easy to feel like prepping is yet another job you should be doing. Remember, you’re not alone. Start small, celebrate progress and reach out to other UKSN members for ideas and support.

Prepping should never add stress - it’s about reducing it. Being prepared means you’ll feel more in control, and able to cope with challenges when they come.

Practical Tips for Getting Started

Here’s a quick checklist to help you start prepping with a disability or chronic illness in mind:

✅ Make a list of essential medication and how to store it. ✅ Create an easy-to-carry folder of medical documents. ✅ Talk to your Charter or family about your plans. ✅ Adapt your grab bag to your daily needs. ✅ Build up your food and water supply in small steps. ✅ Practise outdoor skills in short, manageable sessions. ✅ Keep your kit checked and ready to go.

A Community for Everyone

At UKSN, we know that resilience and self-reliance come in many forms. Whether you’re an expert in foraging, a whizz with first aid, or someone who just loves sitting round the campfire sharing stories, you’re part of a community that values every member.

Being prepared doesn’t mean fitting a stereotype. It means thinking ahead, supporting each other and enjoying the outdoors in a way that works for you.

So, whether you’re packing your grab bag, trying out a new piece of kit or planning your next Charter camp, remember: your skills and experience matter. Together, we’re stronger - and there’s always room for you round the fire.

Join the Conversation

If you have tips or experiences about prepping with a disability or long-term illness, share them with your local Charter or in the UKSN Facebook Group. The more we share, the better prepared we all become.

Stay safe, stay prepared - and see you round the campfire.