The Big Dip
5 to 11 October 2026
Join our annual fundraising challenge this autumn to make a big splash for fishermen and their families across the UK!
Show your support
Take part your way during the first week of October. Whether you dip a toe or dive right in, sign-up for free by starting your fundraising page. Or you can simply donate directly to our Big Dip appeal if you prefer to stay dry.
What is The Big Dip?
The Big Dip is a week of chilly swims, brave splashes, and shoreline cheering – all to raise funds for the hardworking fishermen who bring seafood to our tables.
This year, it takes place between 5 to 11 October. People across the UK and Channel Islands will be dipping in harbours, beaches, rivers, pools … even tubs in the garden.
Become a Big Dip fundraiser! You can dip alone or with a group, organise a community event, or just donate.
We love to recognise our supporters. Keep reading to find out about special gifts for donors and fundraisers.
Why are we looking for dippers?
Fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations in the UK, and incomes are often low and unpredictable. One cancelled trip, bad weather, accident or illness can quickly lead to crisis.
The funds you raise through dipping will help us provide emergency grants, welfare outreach, mental health support, and bereavement care during times of hardship.
How to take part
Step one: choose your Dip!
A chilly sea dunk, a sunrise lake swim, a paddling pool plunge, or a fancy-dress gathering — anything goes, as long as it’s safe!
Take part solo or with friends, family or colleagues.
If you’re an experienced outdoor swimmer, why not make it more challenging? Try a series of dawn dips, visit a different beach each day, organise a group swim, or encourage newcomers to take the plunge with you.
Step two: fundraise
Press the button below to set up your Big Dip fundraising page. Then share it to start gathering sponsorship ahead of the challenge!
And we have goodies!
- If you raise over £150, we’ll send you your choice of a beanie hat or travel mug.
- Anyone who sponsors you £10 or more 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.
Feel free to shout about it!
Share your dipping photos with us and the world! Use #TheBigDip2026 if you post, and make sure to tag us on Facebook and Instagram.
Follow our progress this year
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.
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?
All funds raised will be used by the Fishermen’s Mission to help UK fishermen and their families during times of need. 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 beanie hat or travel mug?
When you raise £150+ on your fundraising page you will receive your thank-you gift in the post (UK and Chanel Islands residents only).
We’ll send out one gift per fundraising page setup once the campaign ends in mid-October.
You don’t need to do anything to claim your gift. You choose between a beanie or a mug when creating your page. We’ll pop it in the post when the campaign finishes if you hit your target.
Will photos I share be used by the Fishermen’s Mission?
We may reshare your photos 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.
Can I use a traditional sponsorship form?
We encourage people to use the online fundraising platform, but if you prefer to use a paper form, you can download a sponsorship form in our Big Dip Resources area.
Have other questions or need more information?
Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a chat.
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