I’m the Neurodiversity and Inclusion Ambassador for The Big Swim 2026 - and here’s why!

The Big Swim 2026 takes place in two stunning locations: Brighton and Dorset and is calling for 1,000-plus swimmers to take part in this very unique event. The swim is run in partnership with Land and Wave, Dorset and Sea Lanes, Brighton. Join us in supporting the South Coast’s largest wild swimming gathering, celebrating International Women’s Day alongside a vibrant and supportive community.

We are supporting The Big Swim because cold water exposure has benefitted so many of our neurodivergent members and because it aligns with our  ethos of community and belonging, regulating before creating and being completely yourself.

Not only is this event likely to be record-breaking in its own right, but it demonstrates just what can be achieved when swimmers, sponsors, partners and volunteers come together and support each other.

A Celebration of Women

International Women’s Day is a moment to pause, reflect, and champion women from all backgrounds and locations. The Big Swim embodies that spirit by inviting people - women, families, friends, and allies - to come together in a vibrant display of solidarity.

This year’s theme, #GiveToGain, reminds us that the fight for gender equity requires the collective efforts and contributions of everyone. By swimming, dipping, or cheering from the sidelines, we shine a light on women in our community, sparking conversations and inspiring action.

Uniting Through Wild Swimming

There’s something magical about the sea; the way it connects us to ourselves, to nature and to each other. Wild swimming has become a sanctuary, a place where we feel alive, free, and part of a larger community. The thought of gathering 1,000 swimmers across two stunning locations (Brighton and Sandbanks) to share in that experience is exhilarating and most definitely lifts your spirits.

I’ve been a wild swimmer my whole life. I grew up on the South coast of Cornwall and was in the sea as often as I could be. I even wrote to Surfers Against Sewage when I began my A level coursework project on the pollution levels in rivers leading to the sea and put stickers with their ‘Bag It, Bin It, Please Don’t Flush It’ campaign on all of the bins in the guest house I grew up in as a teenage activitst!

Taking Action for Women

The organisers of The Big Swim are asking the 1,000+ swimmers to take one action to support and elevate women in their communities. Small actions can have a ripple effect, creating long-term, meaningful change that extends far beyond the day itself. These actions will be collected when swimmers sign up for the event.

 Here are a few examples of what you could do:

• Seek out and support businesses owned by women in your area, such as shops, restaurants, or service providers. Promote these businesses by leaving positive reviews and recommending them to all your friends.

• Volunteer at organisations that provide skills training or professional development for women and girls

• Join or support local organisations that work on issues affecting women, such as domestic violence shelters, reproductive health clinics, or education programs.

• Participate in community meetings, advocate for policies that promote gender equality, and amplify women's voices in decision-making processes.

• Everyone can take one action. Just pick one and make it happen!

The action we will be taking is providing a space where women can explore their neurodiversity and the emotions that come with being late-diagnosed, finding life hard and dealing with shame and regret as a result of actions undertaken when in a dysregulated state - The Activate YOU community.  

 Making Waves for a Cause

One of the reasons we are so passionate about The Big Swim is its commitment to giving back. This event proudly supports Surfers Against Sewage, a charity dedicated to protecting our oceans from pollution and fighting for a sustainable future.

Over the last few years, we have not been able to swim because sewage releases in Eastbourne have made the sea unsafe for swimming on numerous occasions, and the fear of infection from the water is ever-present.

A Community Coming Together

The Big Swim is about more than just the swim itself. It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and connection. From the sparkly, colourful outfits we’re encouraged to wear to the group photo that will capture this unforgettable moment, it’s a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves.

The event is organised by PinkNicky, Land and Wave host the Dorset swim and Sea Lanes host the Brighton Swim,

Visit The Big Swim        https://pinknicky.com/iwd-2026/

How You Can Join us at The Big Swim, 2026 Activate YOU! Is the Neurodiversity Ambassador for the event. We’ll be on-hand with a Sensory Support Station, a quiet area if things feel a bit much, and trained neurodivergent volunteers to help you with whatever you need to enjoy your day.

Here’s how you can dive in and be part of the magic:

 Book Your Spot: Tickets go live on Wednesday, 28th January 2026 at Noon, beware they sell out fast!

• Book your tickets here   

• Get Social: Use #thebigswim26

• Insta Follow PinkNicky 

• Facebook Follow PinkNicky  

A Personal Invitation

My Activate YOU! team and I will be there on March 14th 2026, soaking up the atmosphere, cheering on swimmers, providing sensory and emotional support for anyone who needs it, and some of us will be braving the chilly sea. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer, a curious newbie, or someone who just loves a good celebration, we would love to see you there.

Let’s come together to make The Big Swim 2026 a day to remember! A day of laughter, support, and empowerment.

Follow us here and see us in action on the day

Sea you on the beach!