The BIG Swim Challenge: Dive In and Make a Splash This Summer

This summer, we’re making waves for a BIG cause and we want YOU to jump in with us!

Introducing The BIG Swim, a fundraising challenge that invites adults, children, families, and swim teams to take on 21 miles of swimming across June and July. Whether you’re a pool regular, open water enthusiast, or just starting out, this is your chance to make a BIG difference while making a splash.

Why 21 Miles?

21 miles reflects the £21m needed to bring the whole of THE BUILD to life, but did you know it’s also the distance across the English Channel? Don’t worry, we’re not expecting you to swim it in one go! You’ll have two months to complete the challenge at your own pace. Break it down however suits you, daily dips, weekend swim sessions, or tag teaming with friends and family.

And the best part? You’ll be fundraising to help build something extraordinary at Martin House.

Swimming for Something Bigger

Every stroke you swim supports phase two of THE BUILD, our biggest ever capital appeal to transform the hospice for children with life-shortening conditions. At the heart of this transformation is a brand new hydrotherapy pool, a space designed to bring comfort, relief, and joy to children and families who rely on us. For many of our young people, hydrotherapy is more than just relaxing, it’s essential. It soothes pain, eases movement, and creates magical moments of freedom and fun.

Your fundraising from The BIG Swim will help us fund this vital new facility. So, when you’re gliding through those lengths, know you’re helping children move, float, and feel free.

Who Can Get Involved?

Anyone! The BIG Swim is perfect for:
• Adults wanting a summer fitness goal
• Kids looking for a fun challenge
• Families wanting to splash together
• Swim clubs, schools, and youth groups

All you need is access to a swimming pool or open water, a fundraising page, and the drive to take on something BIG.

How to Take Part

1. Sign Up
You can register your interest and start your fundraising journey on our sign up page.
2. Start Swimming
Track your distance with a fitness watch or app (or count your pool lengths). 64 lengths of a 25m pool equals 1 mile so keep those goggles handy.
3. Share Your Story
Tell friends and family why you’re taking part. Post updates, poolside selfies, and milestones using the hashtags #TheBIGSwim and #SwimForTheBuild

And remember to stay safe. Whether you’re swimming in a pool or the great outdoors, make safety a priority. Always swim in supervised areas, follow local guidelines, and never swim alone, especially in open water.

Let’s Build Something Together

Every stroke you swim and every pound you raise brings us one step closer to a space where children can access life-changing hydrotherapy. Together, we can build a hospice that children and families truly deserve!

Ready to dive in? Join The BIG Swim today and help us make a BIG splash for children and young people with life-shortening conditions.