The Big Knit

Where there’s wool, there’s a way! The much-loved innocent Big Knit campaign has returned, and Age UK Derby and Derbyshire, in partnership with innocent drinks, is calling on the knitting ninjas of Derby and Derbyshire to wield their needles and help make a big difference to the lives of older people.

The popular campaign sees the nation’s crafters come together to knit little hats for innocent smoothie bottles. For every behatted smoothie sold, Age UK receives 30p, providing crucial support to older people both nationally and locally to help them live well. The funds raised will help Age UK continue to provide older people with vital information, advice, and friendship. 

Since it began in 2003, the Big Knit campaign has raised an incredible £3.6 million for Age UK. The 2026-28 campaign aims to knit 1.5 million little hats, with the smoothies hitting shelves in early 2028.

We want to raise even more this campaign, so we’re calling on the people of Derby and Derbyshire 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.” Nicki Garland, Head of UK&I at innocent drinks UK, says, "The Big Knit is an amazing campaign that inspires people throughout the country to knit and crochet little hats, and gives drinkers a simple way to support a cause that truly matters. We are so excited that the Big Knit is back for yet another exciting campaign to help older people live well."

Crafters have until 1st October 2027 to send in their hats, so there's plenty of time to get involved. For those looking for some inspiration, there are plenty of exciting hat designs to choose from, including patterns for fruit and veg inspired creations such as an aubergine, carrot and peas in a pod.
For more information on the Big Knit visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/bigknit or contact Age UK Derby and Derbyshire on 01773 766922. Please send completed hats to Age UK Derby and Derbyshire, 29a Market Place, Heanor, Derbyshire, DE75 7EG.