Giving back at Christmas

Charity shops are a gold mine of treasures at Christmas-time. You can pick up last-minute decorations, packs of Christmas cards and little trinkets, games, clothes, DVDs or books for a bargain price, knowing you’re giving back to a good cause.

By shopping in independently owned stores, you can find unique, one of a kind items for those you care about, while also giving local business owners a much-appreciated boost after a tough few years. Many small businesses sell items that are environmentally friendly, ethical or support local charities, too, so look out for items that can make a positive impact in your local community and beyond.

Many of us will have a clear out in the few days between Christmas and the new year, to make room for the new items we’ve received. However, if you’ve got time ahead of the Christmas break, now is the time to clear out the kids’ toys, clothes you no longer wear, and other bits and bobs. You can give back this Christmas by donating some of these items to local charity shops, where others can then pick them up before 25 December.

If you’ve got winter clothing like coats, blankets and jumpers you no longer need, why not donate them to local clothes banks, or pick up a few extra bits when doing your food shop to take along to a food bank (check what your local food bank is looking for). Not only are you saving yourself weeks of going back and forth trying to sell everything online, you’re giving people the opportunity to make good use of the things you’re no longer in need of.

In the run up to Christmas, many charities and organisations are busier than ever. They might be sorting gifts for their service users, making sure they’re cared for over the break, or they might be organising fundraising activities or taking collections. Why not chip in by volunteering a few hours of your time at a cause you care about? Small organisations in particular always really appreciate an extra pair of hands, and your skill set could be just what they need at this time of year.

If you’re stuck in the office for the next few weeks and don’t have time to volunteer elsewhere, make the most of it and set up a Christmas fundraiser at work (or online). Set up a little charity stall with some information about the charity you’re collecting for, and get creative. You could sell baked goods or organise a raffle for a Christmas hamper and other donated items such as toiletries. Equally, you could offer a clothes, toys or book swap for colleagues to exchange ahead of Christmas.

Handmade gifts always offer a lovely personal touch this time of year. Whether it’s making cards, creating beautiful Christmas wreaths, or crafting tree decorations, selling your hand-crafted items is a great way to raise money and give back to a good cause. You could also host a ​‘crafternoon’, whether you decide to offer a proper workshop like wreath making, or let people make their own crafts – asking for a charitable donation for a ticket.

Carol singing in your local community with family or friends is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit and collect for a local charity. You could arrange this in your local market square, community centre, high street or garden centre. Just make you ask your chosen venue if you need a letter of authority from the charity you’re collecting for, and check if you need a licence (you can contact your local authority to ask) – especially if you’re collecting money.

Many people across the UK don’t have the support of local friends or family, and might be spending the winter alone. Stopping by with some Christmas goodies or a card is a wonderful way to get to know your neighbours, finding out if there’s anything they need. Maybe they need some shelves putting up, some errands running, or would just appreciate a good cup of tea and a biscuit.

Most charities across the UK will now be in the middle of their Christmas appeals for the year. This year, CAP’s Christmas appeal is focused on providing emergency aid for families pushed to breaking point by debt and poverty. This includes things like food shops to put food on the table, fuel top-ups so people can heat their cold homes, and school uniforms for kids.

Will you provide vital support to a family at breaking point this Christmas?