The innocent Big Knit is back

Knitting needles at the ready: The innocent Big Knit is back, raising money for Age UK Surrey

Where there’s wool, there’s a way! The much-loved innocent Big Knit campaign has returned, and Age UK Surrey, in partnership with innocent drinks, is calling on the knitting ninjas of Surrey 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 Surrey receives 30p, providing crucial support to older people both nationally and locally to help them live well. The funds raised will help Age UK Surrey 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.

Tori Haines, Age UK Surrey’s Fundraising Campaign Co-ordinator, said: “Last campaign we knitted a fantastic 13,172 hats, raising £3,951.60 to help older people in our local area. We want to raise even more this campaign, so we’re calling on the people of Surrey to get those needles clicking and help us make this the best Big Knit yet.

Alongside the campaign, Age UK Surrey is delighted to introduce the Big Knit Little Tea Party – a wonderful way to bring people together through knitting, conversation and connection, while supporting older people across Surrey.

Whether hosting a large gathering or a cosy get-together with a few friends, the Big Knit Little Tea Party can help make a real difference. It’s an opportunity to share a cuppa, enjoy some crafting and connect with others, all for a good cause. So, put the kettle on, gather your wool – new or well-loved – and join us in making this Big Knit one to remember!

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." 

Crafters have until 1^st October 2027 to send in their hats, so there's plenty of time to get involved. Hats can be collected throughout the year; we recommend getting started now and sending the hats in once you have a batch ready.