The Big Nacoa Walk 2026 – Supporting children affected by a parent's drinking

Our Goal: £2000

In May, Harry (my son) and I will be walking 21 miles around Ullswater in one day to raise money for NACOA. This cause is incredibly close to our hearts.

Harry’s childhood was shaped by living with a mother struggling with alcohol. Like many children in similar situations, he learned early how to protect, care, and adapt in ways no child should have to. Children of alcoholics often grow up quietly carrying burdens that can affect their mental health, education, and wellbeing.

Up to 1 in 5 children in the UK live with a hazardous drinker. These children are more likely to experience emotional struggles, feel isolated, and face challenges that can last into adulthood. Charities like NACOA are essential—they provide support, guidance, and a voice to children living in these situations, and they help those trying to make sense of the past.

This walk is part of Harry and my journey of healing and hope. By donating, you can make a real difference: £10 helps NACOA answer a helpline call from a child who feels completely alone.

If you can donate or share this, it would mean the world. And if donating isn’t possible, sharing this post helps shine a light on children whose struggles are often unseen.

Harry’s story isn’t unique. With your support, NACOA can continue to be there for every child who needs them. 💛

Why We’re Walking?

Every step we take in The Big Nacoa Walk 2026 is for the 2.6 million children in the UK affected by a parent’s drinking. These children often feel alone, scared, and unheard.

Their stories are often hidden, only emerging in later life as they look to heal their own wounds or make sense of what happened to them and why.

Nacoa provides vital support, offering a lifeline to children who need someone to talk to and resources to help them cope.

While the 50 walkers are walking for children who feel isolated and afraid, the fundraising event itself will be the exact opposite — a celebration of community, hope, and support.

It will bring people together in solidarity to show that no child should ever have to face these challenges alone.

How You Can Help?

By donating to our JustGiving page, you will help fund Nacoa’s free, confidential helpline and support services. Every pound raised makes a difference:

- £10 can pay for 5 information packs to be sent to schools.

- £20 pays for 10 helpline calls to be answered.

- £50 pays for an entire day of helpline calls

- £500 pays for a school support package for an entire year.

Support Us!

We appreciate any donation you can give to help us reach our £10,000 goal. Together, we can make sure that no child feels alone because of a parent's drinking.