Brighter Futures is calling on businesses, organisations and generous individuals to become “Pledgers” for the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2026, helping to unlock thousands of pounds in matched funding that will support the Meadows Appeal, and support patients receiving Systemic Anti-Cancer Treatment at Great Western Hospital.
The Big Give Christmas Challenge is the UK’s largest online matched funding campaign. During the week-long appeal in December, every donation made by members of the public can be doubled through a combination of pledger support and funding from Big Give Champion Partners.
To take part, Brighter Futures needs local supporters to commit a financial pledge by the end of August 2026. These pledges are not paid immediately but are used to demonstrate community backing and secure additional matching funds ahead of the campaign.
Every pound pledged has the potential to unlock an equivalent amount of match funding, significantly increasing the impact of public donations during the Christmas Challenge.
Shabina Dad, Fundraising Manager at Brighter Futures said:
“The Big Give Christmas Challenge offers an incredible opportunity to multiply the generosity of our community. By becoming a pledger, supporters help us unlock match funding that can double donations and ultimately improve care and support for patients, families and staff on the Meadows Unit. We are looking for individuals, local businesses and community groups who want to make a lasting difference.”
How the Pledger Journey Works
- Complete a pledge form by the end of August 2026, confirming the amount you would like to pledge.
- Your pledge helps unlock additional match funding, increasing the overall funding pot available for Brighter Futures during the Christmas Challenge.
- Support the campaign during Challenge Week (1-8 December 2026) by sharing the appeal and encouraging others to donate.
- Receive payment instructions after the campaign closes.
- Fulfil your pledge between 8 December 2026 and 15 January 2027.
Importantly, pledgers do not donate through the campaign page during Challenge Week. Their pledged support is used specifically to match public donations and maximise fundraising potential.
Find Out More
Anyone interested in becoming a pledger for the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2026 is encouraged to contact Brighter Futures, or complete the pledge form, as soon as possible, ahead of the end-of-August pledge deadline.
Together, we can make every donation go further and create brighter futures for patients, families and healthcare staff across our community.
For further information contact Brighter Futures:
Email: fundraising@brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk