1. Agreement to Terms

By booking and participating in a Hehku Sauna experience (the “Service”), you acknowledge and agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. Please read this document carefully before signing. This waiver applies whether you are attending a communal session, private hire, or any event run by Hehku on-site or at a partner location.

2. Assumption of Risk

I understand and accept that the use of the portable sauna and any associated facilities (including cold plunge tubs, outdoor showers, or wild/natural areas) involves potential risks. These include but are not limited to:

• Dehydration, dizziness, fainting

• Burns from hot surfaces or steam

• Slipping on wet or icy surfaces

• Exacerbation of medical conditions (see below)

• Cold water-related risks (cold shock, hypothermia)

• Allergic reactions (e.g. from essential oils or natural materials)

I fully assume all such risks, whether identified or not, and understand that my participation is entirely voluntary and at my own risk.

3. Health & Medical Acknowledgement

I confirm and acknowledge the following:

• I am in good physical health and do not suffer from any medical condition that would make it unsafe for me to use a sauna, cold exposure, or similar heat/cold therapies.

• I do not have, and am not aware of, any of the following conditions:

  • Heart disease or cardiovascular conditions (including irregular heartbeat, history of stroke or heart attack)

  • Respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, or other lung disorders

  • Blood pressure conditions (either high or low)

  • Seizures, epilepsy, or fainting spells

  • Skin conditions that may react to extreme heat, humidity, or essential oils

  • Recent surgery, illness, or injury

  • Pregnancy, unless cleared by a medical professional

This list is not exhaustive. It is my sole responsibility to determine whether I am fit to participate, and I agree to seek medical advice if I have any doubt about my physical condition.

I also confirm:

• I am not under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that may impair my ability to safely use the sauna or related facilities.

• I will listen to my body and exit the sauna immediately if I feel unwell.

• I understand that Hehku is not a medical provider and does not offer medical advice or monitoring.

4. Use of Facilities: Private & Communal Sessions

Private Sessions:

• I understand that during a private hire session, I am fully responsible for my own safety and the safety of all members of my group.

• Hehku may not always be present during private hire sessions. I agree to follow all safety instructions provided before my booking.

• I will not exceed the maximum capacity stated by Hehku and will ensure the sauna is used responsibly.

Communal Sessions:

• I understand that communal sessions involve sharing the sauna with others. I agree to respect others’ space and privacy.

• I understand that Hehku cannot supervise individual health needs or monitor every participant’s condition.

• I agree to behave appropriately and understand that disruptive or unsafe behaviour may result in removal without refund.

5. Waiver of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, I hereby waive, release, and discharge Hehku (Kerry Wheeler, its directors, employees, contractors, volunteers, and the site owner/manager) from any and all liability, claims, or demands arising out of or related to:

• Personal injury, illness, or death resulting from participation

• Any medical emergency that occurs during or after the session

• Damage, theft, or loss of personal property

• Slips, falls, or accidents on the premises

• Misuse of the sauna, cold plunge, shower, or any equipment provided

This applies regardless of whether the incident was caused by negligence, equipment failure, or unforeseen environmental conditions.

6. Indemnity

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Hehku and all associated parties from any claims, legal actions, damages, or expenses (including solicitor’s fees) arising from:

• My participation in the sauna session

• My actions or omissions while on site

• Any injuries sustained by myself or others caused by my conduct

7. Age Restrictions

• Participants must be 18 years or older to use the sauna unless accompanied by a responsible adult.

• Any minor attending must have their waiver signed by a legal guardian.

8. Behaviour & Conduct

• I will follow all instructions from Hehku staff or signage.

• I will not bring glass, alcohol, or prohibited substances into the sauna or surrounding areas.

• I will respect the facilities and other participants.

• Hehku reserves the right to refuse entry or remove any participant without refund if their conduct is deemed unsafe or inappropriate.

9. Cancellations & Refunds

• 48 hours or more notice: Full refund minus a £1 booking fee

• Less than 48 hours' notice: No refund
  Cancellations or changes to bookings must follow this policy. Refunds may not be issued for no-shows or late arrivals. In the event of cancellation by Hehku (e.g. due to weather or technical issues), a full refund or rescheduled session will be offered.

10. Photography & Social Media

Unless I opt out in writing, I consent to Hehku taking photos or video during the session for promotional use. I understand I can request not to be photographed at any time.

11. Data Protection

All personal data collected during the booking process or via intake forms will be stored securely and in compliance with GDPR. Data will only be used for purposes related to the sauna experience and will never be shared with third parties without consent.

12. Legal Jurisdiction

This waiver and its terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

Barefoot & Bower – Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement

By receiving this document and choosing to use the lake facilities, you agree to waive certain legal rights, including the right to sue and that you recognise and fully understand that:

AT NO TIME ARE THE LAKES SUPERVISED OR IS A LIFEGUARD ON DUTY. YOU (THE USER) ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOURSELF DURING YOUR USE.

THE USE OF THE LAKES DURING YOUR PERIOD INVOLVES A NUMBER OF RISKS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• The risk of injury because of possible malfunction of equipment during your use.

• The risk of injuries resulting from slips and falls in and around the lake area.

• The risk of injuries resulting from lack of lake supervision.

• The risk of injuries because of running jumping diving into the lakes or any similar actions.

• The risk of other injuries resulting from any other actions in and around the lakes and surrounding areas.

EACH USER AGREES TO RECOGNISE AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT THE ABOVE LIST IS NOT AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST AND ONLY PROVIDES EXAMPLES OF RISKS THAT COULD POSSIBLY OCCUR WHILST USING THE LAKES AND FACILITIES.

In exchange for ‘BAREFOOT & BOWER’ allowing you to utilise the lake facilities and surrounding area during your session, you hereby agree to the conditions laid out below:

• To waive any and all claims that you have or may have in the future against BAREFOOT & BOWER and its owners or representatives, relating to my use of the lakes and surrounding area.

• To release BAREFOOT & BOWER owners and representatives from any and all liability for any loss, damage, injury, expense, or other cost that you may suffer or that your next of kin may suffer in connection with your use of the lakes and area of to any cause whatsoever, including negligence on the part of the owners or representatives.

• To indemnify the owners or representatives from any and all liability to property and personal injury, to any third party, resulting from use of the lakes and lake area.

• You confirm that you are over 18, and that you are responsible and will adhere to all the rules and regulations of the premises — a copy of which can be found in the communal kitchen on the upper lake and in the pyramid store at the lower lake.

• That you will NEVER swim alone.

Additional Safety Guidance from Barefoot & Bower

The Basics

• All visitors should be competent swimmers.

• All swimmers are advised to undertake a cold-water / wild swimming induction course.

• Always check your entry and exit points. Think before you swim – can you enter and exit the water easily and safely?

• Never jump in. Enter the water slowly to prevent ‘cold water shock’ and to avoid obstacles.

• Don’t mix swimming with alcohol or drugs.

• Do not swim alone. Swim with other people – ideally those who know the area and have swum in open water before.

• Let people know where you are and what you’re doing (use NOWCA or the NOWCA WILD apps).

• Make sure you’re visible in the water. Wear a brightly coloured cap and a tow-float.

• If someone gets in trouble, don’t put yourself at risk — call for help: 999

  • Nearest postcode: GL17 0NN

  • What3Words: ///bookings.science.amber

Safety Notices

• The lake does not have a lifeguard.

• All swimmers, paddleboarders and rowers are requested to look after each other.

• Always tell someone when you are going. NO-ONE IS ALLOWED TO SWIM ALONE OR PADDLE BOARD ALONE.

• Only stand on a paddle board once clear from the jetty and edges of the lake.

• No one under 12 may swim without adult supervision; under 5’s may not swim.

• The child-to-adult ratio must be 1:1.

• Non-swimmers are advised not to enter the lakes.

• There is a safety ring at the side of each jetty.

• Don’t dive — the bottom of the lake is not flat and there are tree stumps.

• Intoxicated persons are prohibited from swimming.

• In case of fire gather in the car park by the sign.

• Read our Release of Liability and Risk Assessment — copies are on site by each jetty.

• When you use the lakes, you agree to these rules and regulations.