Pudsey Bear's first round-Britain voyage for BBC Children in Need
by Big Bear Voyage 8 Jun 08:19 BST
Day 1 of Pudsey Bear's first round-Britain voyage © Big Bear Voyage
Between May and August 2026, Pudsey Bear, Jonathan Brewin and the crew of Big Bear
will embark on an ambitious 2,200-nautical-mile journey around the UK coastline.
Together they will visit around 35 coastal communities, raising funds and awareness for
BBC Children in Need - with a particular focus on children's mental health.
This is the first time Pudsey Bear - Children in Need's iconic mascot - has embarked on a
round-Britain voyage, visiting all countries of the UK: England, Wales, Northern Ireland and
Scotland. Throughout the voyage, Pudsey and the crew will host community events and
meet local supporters.
For many children and families, meeting Pudsey is a joyful, memorable moment. His
presence brings the mission to life - sparking conversations about mental health, wellbeing,
and the importance of feeling supported.
Above all, Pudsey reinforces a simple message: no child should ever feel alone.
Mental Health
Big Bear Voyage 2026 is driven by a simple belief: every child deserves to feel safe,
supported and able to thrive.
Today, 1 in 5 children in the UK is living with a mental health challenge. Through its
nationwide network of funded projects, BBC Children in Need provides vital early
intervention - offering counselling, safe spaces and trusted adult relationships that help
children rebuild confidence, resilience and hope.
With the aim of raising £70,000, this voyage exists to help make that support possible. It's
perfectly timed as Big Bear Voyage 2026 sets off just days after Pudsey Bear spoke for the
first time on national TV.
At coastal locations en route, Pudsey Bear and the Big Bear crew will:
- Host inclusive walks and community events
- Engage with schools and local groups
- Raise awareness of children's mental health
- Generate vital fundraising support
Children in Need is fully supportive and has given Big Bear Voyage 2026 permission to
incorporate the iconic Pudsey Bear in all activities. Use of Pudsey branding will be in
accordance with BBC Children in Need approval and brand guidelines.
Roots of the voyage
This voyage is also about something deeply personal: friendship, connection and the
importance of supportive relationships.
The crew of Big Bear are lifelong friends. Many have known each other for more than
40 years, supporting each other through life's challenges and milestones. Their shared
experience underlines a powerful truth: strong, supportive relationships change lives.
This reflects the heart of BBC Children in Need's work - ensuring children have trusted
relationships and support networks that help them navigate life's challenges.
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