The questions and answers below should cover most queries about Relay For Life. However, if your question isn't answered here just call the Relay For Life hotline on 0871 6412602.
Getting involved
1. What if there isn't a Relay near me?
2. What if it rains?
3. Do I have to stay for the whole event?
Teams
4. How long do we need to run or walk for?
5. Is Relay For Life a sponsored event?
6. Is there an entry fee?
7. How can my team raise money?
8. How much money do we need to raise?
9. What should we bring to the event?
Cancer survivors
10. Who is a cancer Survivor?
11. What am I expected to do as a cancer Survivor?
Volunteering
12. What types of things will I do if I volunteer?
Getting involved
1. What if there isn't a Relay near me?
Start one! Setting up a Relay For Life is a very rewarding experience, call 0871 641 26 02 or email us and find out more about organising a Relay For Life.
You could also help in so many other ways, visit our support us site to find out more.
Relays continue whatever the weather so don't forget the brolly, warm clothes and sensible shoes.
3. Do I have to stay for the whole event?
Teams camp overnight, in between walking laps, but members of the local community can simply attend on the day and can take part in all the Relay's activities.
Teams
4. How long do we need to run or walk for?
It's up to you and the team captain, the only rule is that at least one team member is on the track at all times. Over the course of a Relay, an average team member might spend 2-3 hours on the track in total most teams use a rota system to ensure that nobody is walking for too long a period.
5. Is Relay For Life a sponsored event?
Not as such. Team members do not get sponsored for the Relay itself. They raise money before the event through their own fundraising activities, and top up the money on the day with additional fundraising.
Yes, the entry fees are as follows:
- Team Captain (aged 18 60) £15
- Team Captain (60 or over) £10
- Team Member (aged 18 60) £15
- Team Member (60 or over) £10
- Team Member (under 18) £5
There is no entry fee for someone taking part as a survivor.
7. How can my team raise money?
There are loads of great ways to raise money for Relay For Life. Once you’ve registered your team you will get a booklet packed with fundraising ideas to help you raise as much money as possible.
We also recommend setting up an online fundraising page, it takes just a few minutes and means that anyone, anywhere in the world can give you money through a secure, easy to use website.
8. How much money do we need to raise?
As much as you can! The more money you raise the more people we can help. This year, we are asking each team member to raise at least £200 per team member just £17 a month over a year's fundraising.
9. What should we bring to the event?
Energy, humour and motivation, and as many supporters as you can, along with tents, toiletries, warm clothes, refreshments and a sleeping bag.
It's also possible to continue your fundraising at the event itself – for example, why not sell refreshments to other teams or set up some entertainment?
Cancer Survivors
At Relay For Life, anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis is considered to be a cancer Survivor.
11. What am I expected to do as a cancer Survivor?
Cancer Survivors are the Guests of Honour at Relay For Life. You will meet other cancer Survivors and walk the first lap to officially open the event. There will be a special area at the event for you to relax and meet people. Attend the Opening Ceremony or stay for the whole Relay, it's up to you.
Find your nearest venue and join us as a cancer survivor.
Volunteering
12. What types of things will I do if I volunteer?
Every Relay For Life event is organised by a volunteer Committee who need lots of help before and after the event and on the day. Jobs vary from event to event, you could help organise the Candle of Hope Ceremony, contact businesses for support, help teams with their tents, run cancer awareness activities or provide some music or entertainment to help enthuse and motivate the teams. Find your nearest venue and take part in Relay for Life as a volunteer.
Find your nearest Relay for Life and get involved.