Fundraise for Guts UK

Every bake sale, run, or head shave enables us to be there for those with digestive diseases. Every walk, sky-dive or climb takes us one step closer to getting to grips with guts. Whatever you decide to do, thank you.

If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration on ways to fundraise, or if you’re planning your own fundraising event and need help with a ‘must do’ checklist to help make sure things go smoothly, check out our brand-new Fundraising Guide to help you get started…

Feeling inspired? If you know what you’d like to do, here’s what to do next:

• Contact our Fundraising team at [email protected] or call 020 7486 0341 to tell us about your exciting plans.
• If you need anything from us, such as collection tins, sponsorship forms or a running vest, we’ll send them to you in the post.
• Our team will be on hand to support you every step of the way, to help you get the most out of your fundraising.

There are lots of reasons why people choose to fundraise for us, from doing something special to remember a loved one, to wanting to take on a personal challenge or simply wanting to do something great to help a good cause. We’re grateful to each and every one of our wonderful supporters. With your support, we can be there for people affected by digestive conditions when they need us most. Together, we can help the UK get to grips with guts.

Running training tips and advice

Whether you’re running a 10k, half or full marathon, we’ve got some helpful pointers for you.

1. Plan out when training runs will fit into your schedule – some may prefer an evening run after work, while others might run on their lunch hour.
2. Set realistic and achievable goals – everyone starts somewhere! It’s better to start small and build up over time.
3. Follow training guides for your distance – there are many training guides readily available, popular ones being Couch to 5k, Nike Run Club guides, and Runner’s World guides.
4. Download Strava – many of our runners have used Strava to track their runs, see their performance metrics, and share their progress. You can link your Strava app to your Just Giving page too!
5. Find a running club – while some prefer to run alone, others enjoy the social aspect and added motivation of running with a group.
6. Get everything you need – whether it’s a good pair of trainers, some running outfits you feel comfortable in, or a motivating playlist, make sure you have everything you need to make your runs as enjoyable as possible.
7. Fuel your runs – to get the best out of your training, it is important to fuel yourself with adequate sleep and nutrition. If you have any questions or concerns about nutrition, we recommend you speak to your GP.
8. Listen to your body – there will be times you’ll need to take a break from training, whether that’s to rest, recover or heal. Allow yourself the time needed to get back up and running without discomfort.

Hear from our runners…

Damien, who ran the Brighton Marathon for us in April 2024:

‘When it comes to training for a marathon, my biggest tip would be to just trust the process and put the training in. Always have in mind what you’re running for. Training is tough and some days won’t go to plan, don’t get disheartened. It can be a pain to get outside when it’s cold and miserable, but sticking to the plan and trusting the process means you can really just go out and enjoy race day. 

Whether you’re running a 2.5hr marathon or a 5.5hr marathon, the main goal is to enjoy the race because the atmosphere is unbelievable. 

Approximately 0.01% of the world’s population finish a marathon each year, you are elite whatever your finishing time!’

Briony, who ran the Edinburgh Half Marathon for us in May 2024:

‘Try not to worry about your race time and just soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the experience of running alongside others who are just as passionate about the sport. 

If the race has toilet stops on route, know where they are and try to coordinate it so you aren’t waiting in long queues (carry a pack of tissues in your pocket or vest for emergency toilet breaks or a runny nose). 

Try not to wear new clothing or shoes on race day, go with comfort and reliability. In my case, something I overlooked was socks, something that wicks away moisture and keeps blisters at bay. But, if you do get new shoes, I’d try to break them in beforehand and make sure they can cope with the mileage. 

I found a vest to be a great investment (but not a necessity) as it can hold your water and small snacks/gels/plasters etc and free up your hands.

It’s always good to rest the day before, and in my case, having a carb loaded dinner the night prior and a light breakfast helped me not feel hungry during the race. But this might not suit everyone.’

Rachel, who ran the Alton Towers 10k for us in December 2024:

‘I had never run 10k this time last year, and 3 years ago I couldn’t run to the to the end of the road! I started with Couch to 5k in 2022 and carried on running since.

In January last year I wanted to start running further so I gradually built it up month by month and by summer I’d managed my first 10k!

I’ve found establishing a running routine has really helped to ensure that I regularly run week on week. Initially I made Mondays and Fridays my “run days”. Come rain, sun or snow if it’s a run day I’ll go out!

In the 2 months before the run I added a third run day which helped prepare me. On Mondays I do 10k but the other two days 5km.

Rest days are important, as well as alternating routes, otherwise I find myself getting bored!

If I can do it, any one can. For anyone thinking about it, have faith in yourself, get out there start running and you’ll soon find yourself running further than you thought you ever could.’

Hear from our supporters…

Georgie and Nikki

Both of Georgie’s parents, Nikki and David, were diagnosed with pancreatitis. Sadly, the family lost David in 2019. After learning about our charity in 2021, they held a beauty sale for us in David’s memory and shared their powerful story as part of our annual Kranky Panky campaign.

Alia, Agnieszka & Cassius

Alia has a condition called achalasia. Her parents, Agnieszka and Cassius, wanted to fundraise Guts UK after the family received vital support from us. They decided to donate a percentage of their sales from their business, Mysticbrews, throughout achalasia awareness month. Find out how you can support Guts UK in your workplace.

Dean

After losing his mum to stomach cancer, Dean took on an incredible challenge in her memory. Dean cycled the London to Brighton bike ride to raise funds for Guts UK.

This is one of many challenge events you can get involved with for our charity.

Colin

Colin is fascinated by the gut microbiome. He decided to take on 20 walks over 20 weekends for Guts UK. The more he learnt about our work, the more rewarding his challenge became.

Paige:

Paige decided to donate her birthday to Guts UK after losing her nan.

Donating your birthday 0r marking a special milestone such as an anniversary, wedding or other celebration, is a great way of showing your friends and family a charity that is close to your heart.