Fundraising ideas for Children In Need

Children in Need is the BBC’s national charity, helping to raise funds for disadvantaged children across the country for decades. The highlight of their calendar is the annual telethon, broadcast in November, which helps to boost awareness and donation efforts. Children in Need was founded in 1980 and has raised more than £1.5 billion. 

When is Children in Need?

You can raise money for Children in Need year-round, but their annual telethon is a much-anticipated event in the TV calendar. Usually, Children in Need takes place annually in November on a Friday evening. The telethon is a mix of special segments and real-life stories – usually with a lot of celebs. 

Why fundraising for Children in Need matters

Children in Need supports thousands of projects across the country, working year-round to help those who need it the most. Your fundraising can have a real impact. Fundraising in itself can also teach children about social issues and responsibility, along with instilling empathy. 

If you’d like to start fundraising for Children in Need, it’s easy to start a GoFundMe here. 

Creative fundraising ideas for Children in Need

So, if you’ve been inspired to get fundraising, it couldn’t be more easy – or fun – to get started. First of all, start your GoFundMe page and get sharing on social media, to your friends, family, colleagues, school…

There are plenty of fun, easy, sociable ways to raise money too. If these inspire you, we’ve got even more fundraising ideas here.

School and community fundraising

If you’ve got a child at school or you’re involved with that community in any way, there’s plenty of fun ideas you can do to raise funds either inside or outside of the classroom. 

1. Fun runs or walks with sponsorship pledges
2. Talent shows or competitions with entry fees or ticket sales
3. Bake sales or baking competitions – why not make it fun!
4. A sports day or ‘mini olympics’ with activities for parents and children alike

DIY fundraising activities

If you’re looking for fundraising ideas to do yourself, there are plenty of fast, easy things to do here too. 

1. Craft sales or art exhibitions with proceeds supporting Children in Need
2. Donation jars in your neighbourhood or at school 
3. Start your own GoFundMe and share amongst friends 
4. A sporting challenge – anything from running a marathon to yoga or setting yourself a fitness target each day 

Collaborative fundraising ideas

It’s always fun to get fundraising in teams – and there are plenty of ways to get the community involved in your challenges. 

1. Organising sponsored sports days or challenges
2. Hosting concerts/shows with local performers
3. Karaoke nights at a local community centre with a donation to enter
4. Coffee and cake mornings where everyone provides something

Tips for successful fundraising campaigns

So, you’ve decided that you want to get fundraising, chosen your activity and are ready to get going. Here’s some tips you can follow which can help to make your journey more successful. And, if you want a deeper dive into successful fundraising, take a look at our fundraising tips blog.

1. Set clear and realistic goals for your fundraising
2. Plan everything well in advance when hosting/organising events
3. Utilise online platforms and social media for broader reach
4. Engaging friends, family, teachers, and the local community for support
5. Recognise and appreciate donors, participants, and volunteers