Two girls waving and smiling as they are running the Edinburgh Marathon

Fundraising Ideas

Thank you for choosing to fundraise to support NHS Lothian patients, their families and staff.

We know that not everyone wants to take part in mass events so we hope you find some ideas to inspire you in your challenge. These are just a few ideas, we would love to hear what you have planned.  

Your fundraising can help transform lives for everyone in Edinburgh and the Lothians, so join our incredible #CharityChampions and start your challenge today!

Contact our fundraising team to let us know what you’re doing and we’ll send you a free t-shirt, support you throughout your event and send you a well-deserved medal when you finish your challenge.

Two cyclists riding their bikes along a path

Cycling

As the days are getting lighter there are more opportunities to hop back on your bike and enjoy the outdoors. Create your own challenge today and explore some of Scotland’s most beautiful cycling routes, set yourself a cycling goal and raise money to provide the extra things that make a big difference.

Visit Scotland has put together some of the most spectacular cycling routes in Scotland, from dramatic coastal scenery to windy coastal roads. Choose a route that suits you starting from 8 miles right up to 234 miles!

Running

Two girls holding hands in the air smiling as they run the Edinburgh Marathon

Ready… set… go!!!  Get your running shoes on and raise money by completing a 5K, 10K or a marathon. Decide how long you would like to take on the challenge for e.g. a day or a month and the distance you would like to cover, and make a start by setting up your fundraising page .

Not sure where to start? Why not follow this couch to 5K programme?

We also have charity assured places for the Edinburgh Marathon Festival – there are a range of distances to choose from for different abilities, find out more.

Walking

Five people walking in a group

Set yourself a challenge to walk 10,000 steps a day over a month and raise funds.  You’ll be amazed at the distance you’ll cover and it’s a great way to get outdoors too! Most smart phones have a built in step counter so you can easily keep track of how you’re doing.

You can set up a fundraising page to raise money and track your miles using Strava which can be integrated onto your page.

If you fancy something a bit different like doing a virtual walk around Machu Picchu or in London have a look at World Walking to transport you somewhere else!

Setting up a Fundraising Page on JustGiving

Track your progress and link your fundraising to NHS Lothian Charity by setting up your own JustGiving page

Fundraise at Work

Woman laughing with colleagues

You can get your employer, colleagues, suppliers and customers fundraising for your chosen hospital, ward or department. We have lots of ideas of how to get everyone involved regardless of the size of your organisation, or whether you are working remotely.  It’s a great excuse for some team building, and all for a good cause.

Upcoming Events

Eight members of NHS staff smiling at the camera wearing elf costumes

12 December 2024

The National ‘Elf Service Day 2024

Get ready to embrace your inner ‘elf, don your most festive outfit, and secure your spot on Santa’s nice list! […]

Find out more
NHS Lothian Charity runner approaching the finishing line at EMF

24 May 2025 – 25 May 2025 / Edinburgh

Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2025

Don’t miss out on a chance to secure a place and sign up today. Take advantage of our discounted charity […]

Find out more
a woman and man abseiling down the Forth Rail Bridge

13 October 2024 / Forth Rail Bridge

Forth Rail Bridge Abseil

**This event is now closed** This is your unique chance to abseil S.A.S style off the iconic Forth Rail Bridge. […]

Find out more
EventsKiltwalkFeatured 3

26 April 2025 – 14 September 2025 / Across Scotland

Kiltwalk

Take on an epic Kiltwalk challenge and change lives with every step. Sign up for a 50% discount off the […]

Find out more

Tell us about your fundraising ideas and challenges

We love to hear about your fundraising ideas and challenges. Get in touch and let us know your plans and how we can support you. Remember to tag us in your social media posts using @nhslothcharity