Fundraise for BDMLR

Turn your passion for marine wildlife into life‑saving action

Every rescue BDMLR carries out—every seal pup treated, every dolphin refloated, every whale supported—is powered by people who choose to get involved. Whether you’re an adventurer, a baker, a workplace hero, or a creative soul, there’s a fundraising idea that fits you perfectly.

Your energy becomes real impact for the animals who need us most.

Why fundraising matters

BDMLR is almost entirely funded by public support. When you fundraise, you help us:

  • Train and equip volunteer Marine Mammal Medics
  • Respond to thousands of callouts every year
  • Run our specialist seal hospitals
  • Provide expert support during major incidents
  • Protect the UK’s marine wildlife for the future

Every pound you raise strengthens our ability to save lives.

Ways to fundraise

Take on a challenge

Push yourself and protect marine wildlife at the same time just like Medics Joe Wilkins and Maddy De Marchis did when they walked 60 miles in 60 hours. You can read about it here: bdmlr.org.uk/60-miles-in-60-hours.

Other ideas include:

  • Runs, walks or marathons
  • Open‑water swims
  • Cycling challenges
  • Paddleboarding or kayaking distances
  • Sponsored hikes along the coast

Set a goal, rally your supporters and make every mile count.

Host a fundraising event

Bring people together for a cause that brings people together.

  • Coffee mornings or bake sales
  • Quiz nights
  • Raffles or tombolas
  • Craft fairs or market stalls
  • Film nights or themed parties

These events are brilliant for schools, communities and workplaces.

Get creative

Your imagination is one of the most powerful tools you have.

  • Art auctions or photography sales
  • Music nights or performances
  • Marine‑themed workshops
  • Eco‑pledge sponsorships (eg. litter‑picking challenges)

If it brings joy, it can raise funds.

Fundraise at work

Turn your workplace into a force for good.

  • Charity of the Year partnerships
  • Payroll giving
  • Matched funding
  • Office bake‑offs or dress‑down days
  • Team challenges or away‑day activities

Great for team building and corporate social responsibility.

Celebrate with purpose

Mark your special moments by supporting BDMLR.

  • Birthday fundraisers
  • Wedding donations instead of favours
  • Anniversary or milestone giving
  • In memory collections

A beautiful way to honour what matters most.

Family and kids’ fundraising

Perfect for young ocean‑protectors.

  • Sponsored silences
  • Beach cleans
  • Mini fun‑runs
  • School fairs
  • Marine‑themed art competitions

Fun, educational and full of heart.

How we support you

When you choose to fundraise for BDMLR, you’re never doing it alone. We can provide:

  • Fundraising tips and resources
  • Social media graphics
  • Advice on setting up donation pages
  • Stories and updates to share with supporters
  • A friendly team cheering you on

Your passion fuels our mission — and we’re with you every step of the way.

Start your fundraising journey today

Whether you’re planning something small and simple or dreaming up a big, bold challenge, your efforts will help save lives.

Please email fundraising@bdmlr.org.uk for more information.

Every fundraiser. Every pound. Every rescue.

It all starts with you.