The Big Dip
Join our annual fundraising challenge to make a big splash for fishermen and their families across the UK!
Show your support
Take part your way the first week of October every year. Whether you dip a toe, dive right in, or cheer from the shore: every Big Dip helps show our support for fishermen and their families.
What is The Big Dip?
The Big Dip is a week of chilly swims, brave splashes, and shoreline cheering – all to show our appreciation for the hardworking fishermen who bring seafood to our tables.
It takes place the first week of October every year. People across the UK dip in harbours, beaches, pools …or even paddling pools and bathtubs at home.
You can dip alone or with a group, organise a community event or simply donate! It’s all about joining in, your way.
How to take part
Step one: choose your Dip!
Every dip counts! You can dip in any body of water:
- The ocean
- A lake
- A paddling pool
- Your bathtub
Get creative! Maybe you’ll take a chip for a dip in some ketchup, or dip down to pick up some litter on your local beach. We welcome fun interpretations!
Step two: fundraise or donate
Sign up on our Enthuse fundraising page to set up your Dip challenge. You can fundraise on your own or have a team with your friends, colleagues, or a club.
The best bit? Anyone who donates at least £10 can get an official Big Dip wristband as a thank you (while stocks last)!
Step three: do your Dip
It’s time to take the plunge! Get it done anytime in the first week of October.
Safety first
Everyone who takes part in The Big Dip does at their own risk. Before entering the water, make sure you read:
Always swim with others, check local conditions, and know your limits.
Step four: shout about it!
Share your photos of your Dip with us and the world! Use #TheBigDip or #DipPics2026 when you post and make sure to tag us on Facebook or Instagram.
The Big Dip Resources
We make it easy for you to get started! Check out our bundles of resources to download.
The Big Dip For Primary Schools
Could your teachers and staff brave a chilly fundraising challenge? In return we’ll provide jam-packed fishy resources and activity packs for KS1 and KS2.
Who We Are
Learn more about our work here at the Fishermen’s Mission and why showing your support through The Big Dip matters.
What is The Big Dip?
The Big Dip is our annual challenge to make a splash for fishermen and their families. In the first week of October, we are inviting people across the UK to take a dip to raise funds for the Fishermen’s Mission.
Can I take part if I’m not on social media?
Absolutely! Everyone is welcome.
Do I have to fundraise to take part?
We would love everyone who dips to try and raise funds, but you can also make a one-off donation if that suits you better. Every contribution helps fishermen and their families in need.
Where does the money I raise go?
Your money comes to us here at the Fishermen’s Mission. We support fishermen and their families across the UK to live safe and happy lives despite being involved in one of the most dangerous peacetime careers in the world. 88p from every £1 donated to us is used specifically for the support we provide. The other 12p is used to equip and train our staff. We don’t receive any government or lottery support – so we cannot do what we do without people like you!
Is The Big Dip safe?
Cold water swimming – especially in outdoor natural bodies of water – comes with risk. You are responsible for your own safety when you do The Big Dip, so please take care! Before entering the water, please read the HM Coastguard’s sea safety advice and the Swim England Water Safety Code. Always swim with others, check local conditions, and know your limits.
How do I get a wristband?
When you make a donation to The Big Dip campaign of £10 or more, make sure to tick the box that says, ‘I would like to be posted a Big Dip wristband’. We will put it in the post for you.
Do I need to wear my wristband when I Dip?
Nope! It’s completely optional. If you do have it then we’d love to see it featured in some photos!
Will photos I send be used by the Fishermen’s Mission?
We may reshare your #DipPic on our social media from your own post if you have allowed sharing. We would love it if you would give us permission to share your photos elsewhere like our website! Get in touch with us at enquiries@fishermensmission.org.uk to provide us with written consent in line with GDPR.
Have other questions or need more information?
Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a chat.
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