Walk 31 Miles in May

Can you tell me more about the event?

We are challenging you to Walk 31 Miles throughout the month of May! This is a virtual event, so you can take it on wherever and whenever works best for you. You can aim to walk one mile a day or build your mileage by tackling some longer walks.

In the run-up to the challenge and during May, you will be able to connect with thousands of other walkers in our Facebook Group and feel an amazing sense of achievement when you hit 31 miles at the end of the month.

Read more about the challenge in our virtual fundraising pack.

How do I register for the challenge?

The first step is to register for your free Dementia UK t-shirt and set up a fundraising page.

Next, join the Walk 31 Miles in May Facebook Group. Once you’re in, you can meet your fellow walkers and find out anything else you’d like to know about the challenge.

You’ll then be ready to go! Get some practice walks in so you’re prepared for your challenge once Friday 1st May 2026 comes around.

Is there a registration fee?

Taking part in the Walk 31 Miles in May challenge for Dementia UK is free!

Is there a fundraising target?

There is no fundraising target for this challenge – we just ask you to raise as much as you can for families affected by dementia.

How can I send in sponsorship money I’ve collected offline?

The easiest way to send cash donations to Dementia UK is by donating to your online fundraising page. Alternatively, you can:

• Donate via our website
• Send in a cheque made payable to Dementia UK. Enclose a note including your full name, the email address that you used to register for your t-shirt, and an explanation that you raised the money for the Walk 31 Miles in May challenge. Post it to us at:

Dementia UK, 7th Floor, One Aldgate, London EC3N 1RE

• Make a bank transfer: please email virtualevents@dementiauk.org for our bank details
• Make a payment by phone by calling 0300 365 5500

How do I fundraise?

Creating a Dementia UK fundraiser is the quickest and easiest way to raise money.

Once you have created a fundraising page, be sure to share it with your family and friends and family via social media, text, email and WhatsApp.

Can I raise money without setting up an online fundraising page?

You certainly can. We’ll send you a sponsorship form with your t-shirt, but if you need more than one form, simply download and print more copies.

Please ask your sponsors to fill out all the columns so we can claim up to 25% Gift Aid.

Where do donations to my fundraising page go?

All donations made to your fundraiser will be sent directly to Dementia UK. These vital donations will help support families facing dementia.

How do I get my free t-shirt?

To register for your t-shirt, please complete the registration form. It will take up to two weeks for your t-shirt to arrive, so please be patient.

I still haven’t received my t-shirt – where is it?

We’re sorry to hear you haven’t received your t-shirt yet. If you have waited two weeks since completing the registration form, please email virtualevents@dementiauk.org and we will investigate.

Can I get more than one t-shirt for the challenge?

We send out one t-shirt per participant. If you would like to buy some additional Dementia UK branded items, please visit our shop. You’ll find adult and children’s t-shirts here!

Where and how can I complete my miles?

You can complete your miles wherever you like, however you like! Just make sure you record your walks and keep your sponsors updated on your progress.

How do I record how many miles I have walked?

Strava is a free, easy to use app that can track your miles throughout May. We highly recommend downloading it for this challenge. You will also receive a Walk 31 Miles in May tracker with your t-shirt, which you can use to tick off your miles.

Can I start early or late?

Of course! Our Facebook Group is active in May, when the majority of people are likely to take part, but you can do this challenge whenever is best for you. The more participants we have, the more families can receive the life-changing support of our specialist dementia nurses.

Can I do more or less than 31 miles?

Absolutely. This is your challenge, and you can tailor it to suit you. Just be clear with your supporters about how far you are intending to go and keep them updated regularly with your progress.

What safety precautions should I take?

Safety should be your top priority when taking part in the Walk 31 Miles in May challenge. You know yourself best and we encourage you to think about the distance you walk at one time. If you are walking alone, make sure someone you trust knows your plans, always carry a fully charged phone with you, and please do stay alert. We’d also advise taking rest days whenever you feel you need them, and staying hydrated, especially if the weather is warm.

What if I don’t complete the challenge?

The only thing that matters is that you challenge yourself and enjoy raising awareness and funds so our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses can support families. Do as much as you can. Update your sponsors regularly, be clear about how far you’ve come in your challenge, and make sure they are still happy to donate to Dementia UK.