Make Waves for Brake

Make Waves for Brake is all about taking on a water based challenge that works for you. Set yourself a distance, choose a personal goal or challenge yourself to get out on the water regularly throughout September.

Need some inspiration?

You could:

• Swim 5, 10 or 20 miles throughout the month.
• Commit to 4, 8 or 16 water sessions during September.
• Paddleboard, kayak or row your favourite route each week.
• Set yourself a personal goal, whether that's your first open water swim, your longest distance yet, or simply spending more time enjoying the water.

Whatever challenge you choose, complete it at your own pace throughout September, ask your friends and family to support you, and make every challenge count.

At Brake, we believe that every road death is preventable. Our vision is a world with zero road death and injury, where we can all move in a safe and healthy way, whoever we are and however we travel.

Brake's National Road Victim Service provides free, professional and trauma-informed support to people bereaved or seriously injured in road crashes. We help families navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives and ensure they receive the support they need, for as long as they need it.

Your fundraising will help us provide more care for road victims and continue campaigning for safer roads for everyone.

We've created a range of social media graphics and resources to help you share your challenge and raise sponsorship.

Click here to view and download:

• "I'm taking part" graphics to share on social media
• "Please sponsor me" images to share on social media
• Fundraising poster
• Progress tracker

Don't forget to tag @brakecharity on Instagram or Brake, the road safety charity on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Once you've completed your challenge, you'll receive a digital finisher's medal and certificate to celebrate your achievement.

Share your success with your supporters, thank everyone who sponsored you, and celebrate the difference you've made for road victims.

Your safety is our priority. Whether you're swimming in a pool, a loch, a lake or the sea, it's important to plan ahead and stay safe while taking part in a swim challenge for Brake.

Top tips for safe swimming

• Never swim somewhere you are unfamiliar with. Research your location and be aware of any local hazards, currents or restrictions.
• If swimming in open water, consider swimming with a friend or as part of a local swimming group where possible.
• Check the weather and water conditions before entering the water.
• Wear appropriate swimwear and consider additional equipment such as a brightly coloured swim cap, tow float or wetsuit, particularly in open water.
• Enter the water gradually and allow your body time to adjust to the temperature.
• Be aware that water temperatures can vary significantly, even during September.
• If you begin to feel cold, tired or unwell, leave the water and warm up gradually.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return if swimming alone.
• Stay within your abilities and choose distances that are appropriate for your experience and fitness level.
• Always follow local safety guidance and signage.

If you're new to open water swimming, consider starting in a supervised location or swimming pool and gradually building your confidence and distance over time.

For more information about staying safe in and around water, read the Royal Life Saving Society UK's water safety guidance.

We’ve created images and resources you can share on social media to tell people about your challenge and encourage donations. Click on the images below to copy and share on your social media channels. Share photos of your swims and your progress, too.

Please don't forget to tag us @brakecharity on X and Instagram, or Brake, the road safety charity on Facebook and LinkedIn.

For more options, get in touch with our friendly fundraising team by emailing fundraise@brake.org.uk.

Please note that all images are © Brake, the road safety charity, and must not be edited or adapted in any way.