Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Barnardo’s Big Toddle?

The Barnardo’s Big Toddle is a short sponsored walk for children aged 0 - 5. There are Barnardo’s-organised events that take place every summer but you can Toddle when it best suits you. Nurseries, pre-schools, voluntary groups, childminders and even grandparents all take part.

The Big Toddle has been going for 15 years, and we aim to make this year’s Toddle the biggest, best and most exciting yet. All funds raised go towards our early years projects.

When does it take place?

The Barnardo’s Big Toddle runs throughout the year. Most Barnardo’s-organised events take place around June and July. Most people organising their own event also do so around this time; however, you can have your own Toddle at any time of the year, when it best suits you.

How can we get involved?

It’s so easy! You can organise your own Toddle. It’s really flexible: just choose a date that suits you and your group, choose a location, and then register with us. We’ll then send you a fantastic free event pack in the spring.

Or, you can attend one of Barnardo’s-organised events.

Why did you choose a superhero theme?

After the success of last year’s animal themed Toddle, we asked our Toddlers to decide on a theme for the next year and a superhero theme was the overall favourite. This will give the children a sense of all being part of a big national event and have an overall look and feel. It is totally optional for all involved though.

Our Toddlers have always told us that doing a Big Toddle in fancy dress is even bigger fun. There are many ways to join in this fancy dress, from dressing up as a favourite superhero, or simply wearing a cape and mask, and if last year’s Toddle is anything to go by, it’s going to be a colourful event! There are lots of fun superhero themed games and activities that Toddlers can get involved in for some extra fun and we have supplied a few activities on our website for you.

What if I don’t want to do a superhero themed Toddle?

It’s completely up to you if you want to dress up in the superhero theme. However, if you’re not wild about this idea, you can choose a ‘classic’ Toddle or come up with other ideas to make your Toddle even more fun. Don’t forget to let us know what your theme was, and remember to send in your photos!

Do you have any ideas about how we can make our Toddle extra special?

For ideas on how to make your Toddle extra special, visit our Info for your event page.

How can we register?

Register online today.

Alternatively, email big.toddle@barnardos.org.uk or call 0800 008 7005.

What will happen once we’ve registered?

Once you have registered, you will receive a confirmation letter. You will then receive your free Toddle fun pack automatically later on. You will also be sent a letter explaining how you pay your sponsorship money in.

Will my own Toddle be covered by Barnardo’s insurance?

It is impossible for us to insure you to do your own Toddle as Barnardo’s is not responsible for the organisation of your day and cannot monitor the health and safety provisions you make. You should take all reasonable precautions to safeguard the children.

Please remember that everyone takes part at their own risk and that Barnardo’s shall not be liable for any loss, damage, illness or injury that might occur other than as a direct result of Barnardo’s negligence. You must obtain written consent from a parent/legal guardian for each child attending the event.

Attendees must be made aware before the event that photographs and video footage may be taken at Barnardo’s Toddles and used for fundraising and to publicise the event, event sponsors/partners and Barnardo’s generally. Barnardo’s has the right to refuse to allow any individual to participate.

What is the Toddle fun pack and when will we receive it?

The free Toddle fun pack is crammed with great goodies for every child, including badges and stickers. It’s also packed with lots of useful information to help you organise your Toddle. You will receive your Toddle fun pack in the spring or later if you register after..

How can we order additional materials?

If you have received your event pack and wish to order additional materials, please contact the Toddle Team on 020 8498 7559 or complete this form.

How do we pay in the money we raise?

You will be sent a letter explaining how you can bank your money. The letter will include payslips so you can pay directly into any Barclays Bank (in Scotland use Bank of Scotland and Northern Ireland use Northern Bank).

Alternatively, you can send a cheque made payable to:
'Barnardo’s Big Toddle'

To the following address:
Barnardo’s Big Toddle Team
Tanners Lane, Barkingside,
Ilford, Essex
IG6 1QG

NB. Please write on the back of the cheque the name of your group/parents name, and address.

How do we keep 25% of the money we raise?

Many groups donate all the money they raise to support vulnerable children in Barnardo’s projects. However, if you choose, you can keep up to 25% of the money you raise for your own group or cause. If you keep 25% you will need to retain this before you send the money to Barnardo’s.

Will we receive acknowledgement that we have paid the money in?

Yes - on receipt of payment, you will be sent a thank you letter and a certificate stating how much you have raised.

What is the money raised spent on?

All money raised through the Barnardo’s Big Toddle goes towards 120 Barnardo's projects. These are based throughout the UK, supporting young children and their families. Read more about where your money goes.

Is there someone I can contact if I have more questions?

For more help you can call us on 0800 008 7005, email big.toddle@barnardos.org.uk or contact your local Toddle coordinator.

What is Gift Aid and how can I claim it?

All UK taxpayers can claim Gift Aid on their donation. It adds an extra 25p in every £1 to the value of your donation at no extra cost to you or your sponsors. It’s a fantastic way of boosting your fundraising. Find out more about it in our Gift Aid section.