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The BIG Swim Challenge

Every kick, splash and length you swim will help fund our hydrotherapy pool with life-changing benefits.

The BIG Swim

Date:
Sunday 01 June 2025 - Thursday 31 July 2025
Time:
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

What is The BIG Swim?

The BIG Swim is our summer fundraising challenge supporting phase two of THE BUILD including the vital new hydrotherapy pool.

We’re asking you to swim 21 miles throughout June and July – that’s the equivalent of swimming the English Channel! Whether you’re a regular swimmer or just dipping your toes in, every length makes a difference.

Who can take part?

Anyone who enjoys swimming and wants to support a great cause and challenge themselves! While it’s a perfect challenge for regular swimmers, it’s open to all ages and abilities – whether you’re swimming solo, with family, or as part of a team. Here’s how to get involved:

  • Choose your swim style
    Front crawl, breaststroke, doggy paddle, it all counts! Swim in a pool, open water, or wherever you feel comfortable. Do it solo or make it a team challenge (you can split the 21 miles)!
  • Set your goal
    Swim 21 miles (33.8 km) over June and July at your own pace. That’s roughly 1/3 mile per day, or just under 600 metres if you’re swimming 3 times a week.
  • Sign up
    Click the ‘sign up’ button, download your digital resources and then set up your JustGiving fundraising page to get started.
  • Make a splash
    Start swimming, log your miles, and fundraise to help us build the hydrotherapy pool children truly deserve.

 

Why Your Support Matters

Every pound donated and every brick laid brings us closer to our goal, to transform the hospice for children with life-shortening conditions, and their families with a new hydrotherapy pool at its heart.

Join us and be part of something truly life-changing, as we embark on the biggest project in our history, THE BUILD. Help us raise £2 million so we can provide comfort, care, and the specialist facilities like hydrotherapy that families need now and for generations to come.

 

Frequently asked questions

Who can take part in The BIG Swim?
Anyone! This challenge is open to adults and children. You can take part as an individual, family, school group, or team.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to take part?
Not at all! This challenge is designed to be inclusive. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just getting started, you can complete the 21-mile goal at your own pace across June and July, solo or as part of a team. Stay safe, please only swim in safe, supervised environments and follow local guidelines, especially when swimming in open water.
How do I track my distance?
Use a swim tracker, smartwatch, or a fitness app like Strava or Swim.com. If you’re swimming in a pool, you can count your lengths, 64 lengths of a 25m pool = 1 mile. Just keep a simple log of your swims to track your progress.
What if I can’t swim 21 miles?
21 miles is a suggested target, but every stroke counts. Set a distance goal that works for your ability and time, whether that’s 5, 10, or the full 21 miles. You can even split the distance as part of a team challenge!
Is there a minimum fundraising goal?
There’s no set minimum, but we encourage swimmers to aim for £200 or more to support the hydrotherapy pool. Every donation helps bring comfort, therapy, and joy to children at Martin House.
Are there resources to help me fundraise?
Yes! Once you're signed up, you can download helpful resources including a swim tracker and social media assets. You'll have everything you need to make a splash!
Can I participate with a group?
Absolutely! Families, schools, swim teams, and workplaces can join in together. Split the 21 miles among your group or take on your own targets, it’s all about teamwork and making a difference.
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