4 Easy Ways to Give Back this Christmas

It’s the most giving time of the year…

If you’ve followed us on social media and kept up with our blog for some time, you’ll know just how much charity means to us.

We’re always looking for more ways to raise affinity for a worthy cause - whether that’s through spreading awareness, raising money, or partnering with a well-known charity through the use of our digital donation cards.

At a time of year when we’re statistically at our most giving, then, we’re getting into the spirit by providing you with some easy and thoughtful ideas on how you can give back to the charities and organisations in need of your support this Christmas.

1) Give the Gift of Time

If you decide to volunteer some of your time this Christmas, there are plenty of options out there for you - whether that’s paying a visit to your local food bank or perhaps even volunteering from home!

Age UK has set up an initiative for volunteers to give just half an hour of their time on a weekly basis to chat with elderly, vulnerable people over the phone.

If you’re looking to help people struggling with their mental health, Shout and Young Minds are also amazing charities that run crisis text services for those in need.

2) Channel your Hobby

Why not make volunteering an extra fulfilling experience by turning your hobby into a charitable act? There are so many ways you can get involved, be it cooking, crafting, or even going digital:

Enjoy cooking? Many soup kitchens rely on volunteers to help feed vulnerable people throughout winter and could really use your help
Many charities look for handcrafted items to sell in charity shops, so if you love crafting, this may be right up your street! Check the UK Hand Knitting Association to find out more
If you’re savvy with all things digital, you could be the perfect volunteer to help Age Uk find ‘digital buddies’ to pair with older people to help them get to grips with technology

3) Shop Small

Not only will you be doing your bit in helping independent businesses, but you may also find yourself supporting a charity!

Many small businesses support charity initiatives with their products and will donate a percentage of their profits for every purchase made. Check out this article for places you can shop for gifts that will give back to a great cause.

4) Buy Charity Cards & Gifts

Did you know that many well-known charities provide Christmas cards and gifts that will donate either a percentage of (or their full) profit to the causes they support?

By shopping secondhand this year, you can support your local charity shop and take some solace in the fact you’re making the more sustainable choice.

Many charities like Oxfam sell ethical products to help those who produce them earn a suitable living, whilst Samaritans, Cancer Research UK and NSPCC sell a range of stunning Christmas cards where all profits go towards their incredible work.

12 Days of Christmas NSPCC Christmas Charity Cards

5) Donate

Last but not certainly not least, you can always donate money directly to the charity or charities of your choice.

Food banks, hospitals, and hospices are of course gratefully receiving donations, but if you’re looking for some other ideas why not use one of our digital donation cards to donate online?

We have a selection of Charity images in support of amazing UK-based charities that you can use to make a donation all year round - including Samaritans, Movember and more! View them all here.