Event info & FAQs
Below you will find all the essential information needed for your challenge, along with answers to our most frequently asked questions. Any further questions? Simply drop us an email and we'll be happy to help.
What is the Only Water Challenge?
We’re challenging you to drink nothing but water for one whole month. Cut back on your caffeine, sugary drinks, and alcohol for the length of February.
Key Event Information
Signing up - sign up the event event and recieve your digital welcome pack.
It's free - there is no registration fee to take part in the event
When - February 1st-28th 2025
Fundraising - there's no minimum sponsorship but we recommend trying to raise £100
Is the challenge suitable for everyone?
The challenge may not be suitable for everyone, and we recommend that you discuss the challenge with your health care professional before taking part if you are unsure. If you start this challenge and it impacts on your health and wellbeing, we advise that you stop and speak to a healthcare professional. We have other fundraising challenges on our website that may be more suitable for you. Please visit our Health Hub to find out further information.
Why the Only Water Challenge?
Some of our supporters have explained that they're unable to take part in our physically active fundraising events but that they still want to support people affected by diabetes. That's why we created our Only Water Challenge - we can offer a suitable alternative to those individuals and anyone else wanting to take part!
A whole month of only water?
Yes, we know it's a tough challenge, but that's what's going to help you with your fundraising.
Can I have sparkling or soda water?
It's all water, go for it!
Can I add anything to my water?
Yes, but only if it's fresh fruit or fresh herbs in their natural state. Lemon or lime wedge anyone?
What about decaffeinated tea and coffee?
If it's not water, then it's a no go.
Do protein shakes, soups and smoothies count?
We class these as food, so please continue to enjoy!
If you are following any meal replacement diet that has been recommended by a healthcare professional you can continue with this, as these products count as food and should be providing you with important nutrients. To find out more information about this please visit the health hub.
Can I have a day off?
We know there's bound to be special occasions or certain days where you fall of the bandwagon. So to help you out, ask somebody to buy you a 'Have one on me pass' in exchange for a donation you can have a whole day off drinking only water. Check out our pass in the resources section.
How do I get help with my fundraising page?
If you are having problems with your page, don't worry, just get in touch with the JustGiving support team by emailing help@justgiving.com
Do I have to fundraise online?
Your page is a quick and easy way to get donations from friends without any money changing hands, but you don't need to fundraise this way. If you would rather fundraise using our sponsorship form, that's absolutely fine. You can download this on our Resources Page.
How do I send in money donated on to my profile page?
You don't need to do anything - the money donated onto your profile page comes directly to us.
How do I send in money raised offline?
The easiest way is to pay the money into your bank account and donate it to your Only Water fundraising page.
If you have a cheque you can make it payable to Diabetes UK and send to:
Only Water Challenge, Diabetes UK, Wells Lawrence House, 126 Back Church Lane, London E1 1FH
Include your sponsorship form or a note with your name and the event you have taken part in.
Or over the phone by credit/debit card to the number on the form. Just give us a call on 0345 123 2399, Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm.
The deadline to send donations in is 31 March 2025.
Can I have some help to get my fundraising started?
The best way to get your fundraising started is to make the first donation yourself, or ask your closest friends and family to start you off. People are less likely to donate to an empty page. Then be sure to share your page on all your social networks and post regular updates about your challenge. You can also consider holding a small event, such as a sweepstake, name the teddy or another idea. Get in touch with us on onlywater@diabetes.org.uk and we can help.
Remember you're doing an amazing thing for everyone affected by diabetes, and be proud of yourself!