Polar Plunge

Take on the frostiest fundraiser in Gloucestershire

Calling all brrrrrr-ave souls! Do you dare to dive into freezing cold waters to help warm the hearts of bereaved children and young people? 

Join us on Saturday 8th February and challenge yourself to swim the icy waters of Sandford Parks Lido all whilst raising funds for Winston’s Wish.

New for 2025

Introducing the Polar Plunge Dip and Polar Power Swim!

This year, we’re introducing TWO distances for those looking to challenge themselves even further.

Our classic Polar Plunge Dip will see you swim a few widths of the 27 meter wide pool. While our Polar Power Swim is more of an endurance swim that allows participants to have an extended period in the pool.*

When: Saturday 8th February at 11am

Where: Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham

Who: Swimmers must be 17 or over to take part

How much: Registration costs £20

We kindly ask you to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship for the Polar Plunge Dip and £100 for the Polar Power Swim.

*We expect this to be a maximum 30 minutes though this may need to be reduced if the water is particularly cold on the day of the event.

Your contribution will help young bereaved people like Darcey, a Winston’s Wish Youth Ambassador, who will be taking the plunge in memory of her dad: 

‘I am participating in the Winston’s Wish Polar Plunge and would love to see you there. The polar plunge to me represents the resilience and strength I have built throughout my journey of grief after losing my dad. Submerging myself into cold water will challenge my mental willpower and achieving it will give me a huge sense of accomplishment. You have no idea how much your money helps to support people like me and I can’t thank you enough’ 

Raising £50 in sponsorship would help to fund the equivalent of  three live chat sessions delivered by our incredible digital team who help provide direct support to children and young people after their worlds have been turned upside down by grief.   

We understand that times are tough right now, and so our friendly fundraising team are on hand to help you with tips, ideas and advice on how to make the most of your fundraising efforts.  

What’re you waiting for? Take the plunge and do something amazing, today!