Funding vital research
We’re on a mission to save and change children’s lives through medical research, developing treatments, vaccinations and cures.
Fighting rare disease
30% of children with a rare disease will lose their lives before their fifth birthday. With your help we can develop treatments and cures to tackle rare diseases that devastate children’s lives. Help fund vital research.
Premature birth and pregnancy complications
Some women experience complications during pregnancy which can involve the mother’s health, the baby’s health or both.
Childhood cancers
In the UK almost 4,000 children and young people under 25 are diagnosed with cancer every year. We are funding research to try and improve the chances and treatment for children with brain tumours and cancer.
Successes
With the help of all our supporters we have played a significant role in many medical breakthroughs for 70 years, starting with the development of the first UK polio vaccines.

Race The Sun Lake District
Saturday 5 September 2026
Bike, Hike and Paddle through majestic mountains and sprawling lakes in the heart of the beautiful Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Not near the Lake District? We have challenges taking place across the country, from the Lake District to Somerset, there is something for everyone!
Cycling Events
With cycling challenges both in the UK and abroad, there's definitely a challenge waiting for you. From beginners to the very experienced and with routes ranging 20 miles to hundreds of miles, come and join us in the fight for little lives.
Race the Sun
Our triathlon-style Race the Sun series pits teams against each other in a race against the setting sun, competing to bike, hike and paddle around some of the UK's most beautiful locations.
Running
Whether you’re looking for your first challenge or you’re a seasoned runner we’ve got an event for you. We have places in the world’s greatest and best-known events and races.
Latest news
Play with sticky mittens improves learning and cognitive development in very premature babies
Action funded research has shown that play experiences using Velcro covered mittens and toys can improve the exploratory behaviours of infants born very prematurely.
Latest Blog
Best UK Cycling Cafes As Voted For By Our Fans
Over on our socials recently we asked our fans what was their favourite cycling-friendly cafés to refuel at on a ride, and this blog is what they told us.
Latest Video
Latest Videos
Watch the latest and other videos from Action