Age UK Northumberland is calling on local knitters to help raise vital funds, one tiny hat at a time.
Knitting needles at the ready! The much-loved Big Knit campaign is back, and Age UK Northumberland wants local crafters to get involved.
In partnership with innocent drinks, the charity is encouraging people across the county to create miniature woolly hats for smoothie bottles.
For every smoothie sold wearing one of the colourful creations, Age UK receives 30p. These donations help older people access vital support, friendship and advice.
Small hats making a big difference
Since launching in 2003, the Big Knit has raised an incredible £3.6 million for Age UK.
Now, the 2026–2028 campaign hopes to collect 1.5 million little hats. The decorated smoothies will then reach supermarket shelves in early 2028.
Locally, the money supports a wide range of Age UK Northumberland services. These include bereavement support, dementia care, friendship groups, home care and wellbeing activities.
The charity also provides information, advice, advocacy and support for veterans. In addition, its services help older people stay connected and independent.
Northumberland knitters make their mark
During the previous campaign, local supporters created an impressive 18,462 hats. Together, they raised £5,538.60 for older people across Northumberland.
Amy Whyte at Age UK Northumberland hopes the community can go even further this time.
“Last campaign we knitted a fantastic 18,462 hats, raising £5,538.60 to help older people in our local area. We want to raise even more this campaign, so we’re calling on the people of Northumberland to get those needles clicking and help us make this the best Big Knit yet.
“With winter on the way, older people are particularly vulnerable at this time of year and they need us more than ever. Helping to knit these little hats can make a big difference to older people in our community.”
A partnership with purpose
The Big Knit continues a long-standing partnership between Age UK and innocent drinks.
Sarah De La Mare, Head of Marketing Lead UK&I at innocent drinks, said:
“The Big Knit is an amazing campaign that inspires people throughout the country to knit and crochet little hats, and gives shoppers a simple way to support a cause that truly matters. We are so excited that The Big Knit is back, and we will be continuing our long-standing partnership with Age UK to help to help older people live well.”
How to get involved
There’s plenty of time to pick up your knitting needles, with the deadline for completed hats set for 1 October 2027.
Whether you’re an experienced knitter or a complete beginner, there are plenty of designs to try. From classic woolly hats to playful fruit and vegetable creations, there’s something for every skill level.
You can explore the Big Knit knitting patterns for inspiration.
Once finished, send your creations to:
Age UK Northumberland
The Round House
Lintonville Parkway
Ashington
Northumberland
NE63 9JZ
For more information, visit Age UK Northumberland’s Big Knit page or call 01670 784 800.
Every little hat helps make a difference to older people across the region.
