Community Cold Water Dip
Community Sea Dip: Beat the Winter Blues!
18th January 2026
Join us for a winter community dip at SOBO Beach as we come together to Beat the Winter
Blues and support mental health across Dorset.
The Community Dip marks the finale of our Dip a Day campaign and is delivered in collaboration with the Southbourne Surf Life Saving Club.
The event is open to anyone who would like to take part in a short, supervised cold water dip, followed by a warm drink and time to connect.
How To Get Involved
Time
- Arrival from 9.30am
- Safety briefing at 10.00am
- Community dip immediately after
- Warm drinks available post-dip
- Event ends around 11.00am
Location
SOBO Beach, Bournemouth
Cost
Free to attend
Donations welcome on the day
What to expect
This is a community dip, not a swim. Participants will enter the water for a short, shallow dip within the lifeguard zone. Lifeguards and event volunteers will be on site to provide guidance and support.
The event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming, whether you are new to cold water dipping or a regular dipper. You are encouraged to take part at your own pace and within your comfort levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cold water dipping carries risks. Participation is at your own risk, and you should only take part if you feel fit and well.
Please follow all safety guidance on the day, including:
- Staying within the lifeguard flags
- Entering the water slowly
- Dipping with others and looking out for one another
- Exiting the water if you feel unwell at any point
Lifeguards will be present throughout the event and first aid support will be available. Warm drinks and foil blankets will be on hand to help you warm up after your dip.
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A warm robe or towel
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Warm layers for before and after
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A hat and gloves
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A hot drink in a flask
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Suitable footwear for the beach
You are welcome to come along to watch, support, or donate without entering the water. Please speak to a volunteer if you need any assistance on the day.
If you have a medical condition or concerns about cold water exposure, we advise checking with your GP before taking part.
By joining the Community Dip, you are supporting Dorset Mind and helping us continue providing vital mental health services across Dorset during the winter months.
Ready to take the plunge?
Fancy taking the challenge across January? Signup for our Dip a Day Cold Water Challenge from Jan 1st to January 17th and help beat the winter blues for yourself, and for Dorset.
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