September campaigns: Who's doing what and why it's not too late for your charity

From sustainability to health, children's causes to cancer support, charities across the UK are launching high-impact campaigns this month. But here’s the good news: even if you haven’t started, it’s not too late to launch your own.

At IFCo, we’re keeping a close eye on who’s doing what — and how you can still join the action.

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Who’s leading the way this September?

Here are five standout charities with campaigns either underway or about to begin — each providing inspiration and a reminder of the creative options available, even with limited time.

1. Oxfam – Secondhand September

Oxfam’s nationwide sustainable fashion campaign encourages people to shop only secondhand for the month. With Jameela Jamil as this year’s ambassador, it’s making waves across social media and high streets alike.

Focus: Sustainability and climate action
Inspiration: Tie your message to wider social trends like reuse, ethical consumption, or climate action.

2. Macmillan Cancer Support – World’s Biggest Coffee Morning (26 September)

This iconic event invites people to host coffee mornings to raise funds for cancer support services. It’s easy to run and incredibly effective — raising over £310 million since its inception.

Focus: Community giving and peer-to-peer fundraising
Inspiration: A low-lift, high-return event format that any charity can adapt quickly.

3. Leukaemia UK – Thames Moonlight 10 Walk (12 September)

Participants walk a 10km or 10-mile route at night along the Thames, raising funds for vital cancer services. It’s a simple concept with a unique twist — walking by moonlight.

Focus: Immersive fundraising experiences
Inspiration: Put a creative spin on an otherwise straightforward format.

4. Save the Children – Great North Run (7 Sept) & Berlin Marathon (21 Sept)

Although their charity places are full, Save the Children continues to raise funds through supporters running global marathons. These events offer strong brand alignment and deep supporter engagement.

Focus: Fitness fundraising and brand-led giving
Inspiration: Use major events to engage your audience, even if only through social storytelling.

5. Rainbow Trust – September Challenge Events

From treks and cycle rides to fun runs, Rainbow Trust is involved in a whole series of activities this September, making it easy for supporters to pick a challenge that suits them.

Focus: Multiple entry points for supporter involvement
Inspiration: Offer flexible options so people can choose how to engage — the easier, the better.

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It’s not too late to start your own campaign

Even if you don’t have anything planned yet, don’t let the calendar hold you back. A compelling, well-timed short campaign can have powerful results.

Here’s why starting now still works — and how to do it:

Why Launch Now?

• Back-to-school energy: Families are back in routines and ready to re-engage.
• Existing awareness weeks: Align your campaign with causes already being spotlighted, like Remember A Charity Week (9–15 September), World Alzheimer’s Month, or Secondhand September.
• Quick-turnaround digital tools: With platforms like JustGiving, Canva, Mailchimp, and social media, you can build a campaign in a matter of days.

Campaign ideas you can launch this week

Quick plan: A 5-day flash campaign

If time is tight, a focused, short-term campaign can deliver strong results with minimal overhead.

• Day 1: Launch with a compelling story and clear call to action.
• Day 2–4: Share daily content: testimonials, facts, impact stats, short videos.
• Day 5: Final push with urgency ("Last chance to give before midnight!").

Top tip: Urgency, clarity, and storytelling are your most powerful tools — not budget.

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Upcoming opportunities still ahead in September

• Remember a Charity Week - 8-14 Sept
• Macmillan Coffee Morning – 26 Sept
• Vitality London 10k – 28 Sept
• World Alzheimer’s Month – All of September
• Back-to-school fundraising – Throughout the month
• Climate Week NYC (Global relevance) – 22–29 Sept

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And finally

At the International Fundraising Consultancy, we work with charities of all sizes to help them think big, act quickly, and raise more — especially during key giving seasons like September.

If you’re feeling behind, don’t panic. Even a simple digital campaign or a community fundraiser can spark real support if the message is clear and the cause is compelling.

Whether you need strategic planning, campaign coaching, or just a creative brainstorm, get in touch — we’re here to help you make the most of every opportunity.

Contact IFC today for advice on launching your September (or October!) campaign.

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