Always on
This project successfully funded on 30th April 2026, you can still support them with a donation.
Blue Bloods - wild swimming for wellbeing
Cirencester, United Kingdom
Aim
Please help us to fund training, safety gear and introduction sessions to get even more men into the water and talking to each other.
Who are we?
We were founded in 2024 primarily to encourage more men to get the well-being benefits of outdoor swimming (although women join us too).
We are based at the Cotswold Lakes and swim all year round, stopping for post-dip coffee and conversation.
Laughs are had, worries are shared, friendships are formed and everyone leaves feeling lighter and more connected.
Why are we crowdfunding?
As the club grows, we have three specific needs:
1) To purchase a supply of tow floats for people who wish to try outdoor swimming but can't afford this essential piece of safety kit.
2) Training in Outdoor Swimming Leadership.
3) Providing outdoor swimming introduction sessions for newcomers.
How we’ll spend the money raised
10 x tow floats @ £34.99 each plus £3.99 postage: £353.89
1 x Outdoor Swimming Leader course: £350
Any remaining funds will be used to provide outdoor swimming introduction sessions for guys that are new and want some expert guidance.
Community impact
The benefits of the group are many and varied. A survey conducted by Gloucestershire County Council in 2022 found that 43% of men in the region reported feeling stressed or anxious on a regular basis, yet only 20% had accessed any form of professional mental health support.
Our relaxed, informal group helps men to stay mentally and physically healthy:
“It’s helped me conquer my depression, which I had for a long time. I’m surrounded by good people.”
“I had a life-changing diagnosis two years ago and it’s nice to be with a new group of guys who chat and support each other.”
“I love being outside and I feel great when I’m in the open water. It gives you a lift for the day.”
“We all sit here and have a bacon roll and a coffee afterwards, and a bit of banter and a good old chat.”
How you can play your part
1. Make a pledge. Don’t delay if you’re going to support us because momentum is key to our success!
2. Spread the word. Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us! The more people we reach, the more support we will get.
Whatever we raise will go towards providing wild water wellbeing benefits, so any amount will be truly appreciated!
Thank you : )
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made