Sepsis Awareness Month 2026
Sepsis is the body’s life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can affect anyone but is often treatable if caught early.
If someone with an infection is getting worse instead of better – and something feels seriously wrong – trust your instincts and act quickly.
Sepsis can kill within hours. A simple question could save a life. Just Ask: “Could it be sepsis?”
Awareness saves lives, so please help us get this message in front of as many people as possible. Share it with your friends, family, colleagues and community.
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WORRIED ABOUT SOMEONE?
affected by sepsis?
WHAT DOES
UKST DO?
UKST aims to end preventable deaths from sepsis and improve outcomes for those affected. Your support helps us:
- Reach more people with life-saving information, working with organisations such as Mencap, Centrepoint, and NFU Mutual to connect with people at greater risk and communities facing barriers to information and care.
- Improve sepsis care by educating healthcare professionals and campaigning for change.
- Be there for people affected by sepsis with free information and Nurse-led support.
We’re grateful to HSBC for supporting our Sepsis Awareness Month 2026 Campaign.
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As an independent charity, we’re not funded by the Government or NHS. We rely on donations, fundraising, and partnerships to make our life-saving work possible.
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“Trust your instincts – you know if your child isn’t right.”
Aaron was diagnosed with sepsis after his mum noticed he wasn’t himself and pushed for further checks. Her message to parents is clear: even subtle changes can be a sign of sepsis.
“Children with Down syndrome often present differently... You know your child best. Don’t be afraid to speak up or ask questions if you feel something isn’t right.”
Cerys has survived sepsis twice. Her mum Patsy is calling for greater awareness of how sepsis can present differently in children with additional need.
“I didn’t know what sepsis was, but I want others to be better informed... awareness can save lives.”
Jess caught an infection while she was being treated for cancer, which later developed into sepsis.
Thanks to support from her friends and her own determination, she recognised something wasn’t right and pushed for the care she needed.
Now, she encourages others to trust their instincts and seek help early.
"If you suspect sepsis, don't wait: seek urgent medical attention. Without swift medical intervention, I might not be here today."
A urinary-tract infection pushed kidney-transplant patient Richard into life-threatening sepsis.
He credits fast action from a 111 call and handler and the hospital team with saving his life.
Now, he wants others to know when to seek urgent help.
“If you feel unwell, always think: could it be sepsis. Act quickly. It doesn’t matter if it’s a false alarm.”
After surviving sepsis during pregnancy in 2023, Sammi later nearly lost her life to sepsis following routine surgery in just two years later.
Now living with PSS, she’s calling for greater recognition, better aftercare, and greater awareness of the long road to recovery.
"I remember looking at my wide and saying there's a letter to [our daughter] in the bottom drawer of my office, and told her to give it to her on her 18th birthday."
After having toxic shock syndrome in 2014, Naj was 38 when he developed sepsis following a routine operation in 2023.
Naj was so unwell he came close to never seeing his 18-month-old daughter again. Luckily, he recovered, and was helped through his recovery journey by UKST’s Support team.
Now, he’s encouraging others to Just Ask: “Could it be Sepsis?”
WANT TO STAY IN TOUCH?
Sign up for useful information about sepsis, campaign updates, and how you can take action to support our work.
FAQs
What is Sepsis Awareness Month and when does it take place?
Sepsis Awareness Month takes place every September. It’s an opportunity for everyone – from health professionals to the general public – to raise awareness of sepsis, highlight its impact, and empower people to act quickly and with confidence.
World Sepsis Day falls on 13th September each year.
Why is sepsis awareness important?
Sepsis awareness matters because anyone can develop sepsis and it can be difficult to recognise. Knowing when someone with an infection may be seriously unwell – and having the confidence to trust your instincts and act quickly – can save lives.
Are there other ways I can support the UK Sepsis Trust?
Yes!
Fundraisers are at the heart of what we do at UKST. Whether you’re hosting a bake sale, taking on an endurance challenge, or finding another way to get involved, there are lots of ways you can help raise awareness and support our work.
If you’d like to make a long-term contribution to UKST, you can set up a monthly gift. Regular gifts give us the stability we need to plan ahead, continue supporting people affected by sepsis, and keep pushing for change across the UK. Set up a gift here.
I’m a health professional. What can I do?
Health professionals – including social care staff seeking sepsis awareness resources – can access our free sepsis clinical tools, e-learning materials, and patient signposting information here.
How can I raise awareness of sepsis in my workplace?
There are many ways you can support sepsis awareness at work – from booking a Lunch & Learn awareness session to organising a corporate fundraising event. Discover how you can partner with us here.
I’ve been affected by sepsis. Where can I find support?
Our Support Nurses are here to help you, no matter how sepsis has impacted you.
Whether you’re recovering from sepsis, caring for someone in recovery, or coping with the loss of a loved one, we provide specialist guidance, support, and a listening ear. Learn more about our sepsis support services and how to get in touch.
How does sepsis start in the body?
Sepsis can develop from any infection, including stomach bugs, flu, tooth infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or even a small cut. You can learn more about sepsis here.
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