Jo in the Water: coming to cinemas this Autumn
Exmouth, England, United Kingdom
Aim: We are seeking final funds to complete our documentary, to deliver real impact & ensure the film reaches the widest possible audience.
We are award-winning indie filmmakers, bringing important and inspiring stories to life onscreen.
Jo in the Water, in partnership with Surfers Against Sewage & River Action, tells the story of a passionate sea swimmer turned reluctant activist.
Jo Bateman takes on one of the UK’s biggest water companies in a David-and-Goliath battle to protect our rivers, lakes and oceans from devastating sewage pollution and the impact of climate change.
As Jo’s courage helps ignite a growing movement, this film exposes the dire state of our water system and asks: who will stand up for our right to swim in clean natural waters, for the species and communities that rely upon them?
Could you help today by supporting this film?
Jo in the Water is a powerful, emotional feature-length documentary film. It is not just about water pollution; it is about connection—to nature, to our own sense of place, and to our responsibility for the world around us.
"Jo inspires people… they realise that together we have a greater strength.
In a shoal like this we become mighty."
Chris Packham, Wildlife TV presenter & conservationist.
Why are we crowdfunding?
Thanks to the generous backing of Surfers Against Sewage, River Action and the Dixon Trust along with a host of individual backers, we have completed 95% of our filming and are deep in the editing process.
We now need to raise the final 20% of the budget to enable us to finish the film and ensure that it reaches the widest possible audience.
Jo in The Water is poised to spark urgent conversations and inspire action.
This is not just Jo’s fight—it’s all of ours. And the time to act is now.
Do you feel passionately about nature and the environment? We need your help NOW!
How we’ll spend the money raised
The money raised will be used for the final few days' filming, continuing editing and then for distribution into cinemas across the UK and ensuring the film reaches the widest possible audience.
The world premiere will be in Exmouth in the Autumn!
How you can help
There are two simple ways to get involved and support our project:
1. Make a donation
Every pledge gets us closer to our goal. YOUR support TODAY will help build momentum and inspire others to give too.
2. Help spread the word
Share our project with friends, family and your wider network. The more people we reach, the more likely we are to succeed.
Visit our website and sign up to our newsletter:
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 4th September 2025 at 12:34pm