For many, Christmas is the most joyful and exciting time of the year. It’s a chance to gather with family, exchange gifts, celebrate, and share love and kindness. Many of us are lucky enough to take time off work, enjoy a well-earned rest, or even get away for a while.
But amidst the twinkling lights and festive buzz, it’s easy to forget that this time of year can be incredibly tough for others.
Mental health struggles, illness, bereavement, poverty, and other personal hardships can feel especially overwhelming during the holidays. That’s why it’s so important that we look out for one another – not just those closest to us, but those in our wider communities who may be in need of extra support.
There are many fantastic charities that work tirelessly to bring comfort, warmth, and care to those facing difficult times at Christmas. Whether through financial, emotional, or practical support – there are so many ways to get involved.
Here are just a few Christmas appeals you can support this year:
The Salvation Army
This Christian organisation helps people from all walks of life – from children and the elderly to the homeless and survivors of domestic abuse.
This Christmas, their appeal includes:
- Providing food and gift boxes to families in need
- One-to-one support for people facing homelessness
- Hot meals and companionship for older people
How you can help:
- Donate via their website
- Volunteer during the festive season to help distribute meals or support events
St Elizabeth Hospice
A local charity dedicated to improving life for those with progressive or terminal illnesses and supporting their families.
Christmas is a key time for fundraising, and you can:
- Organise your own events – think festive bake sales, carol concerts, or charity raffles
- Volunteer at hospice events such as the Christmas Day Dip or the New Year’s Dog Walk
- Shop for gifts in one of their many charity shops
Secret Santa – Action for Children
This initiative supports vulnerable children who may face Christmas alone, hungry, cold, or feeling unloved.
Your donations help to provide:
- Hot meals
- Warm clothing and bedding
- Safe places to sleep
- Presents to bring a little joy
How you can help:
- Make a one-off donation – either for yourself or in someone else’s name as a meaningful gift
Giving World
Giving World partners with companies to redistribute surplus stock – from clothing and toys to toiletries and books – to communities living in poverty.
Christmas is the perfect time to declutter and donate.
How you can help:
- Donate unused or good-quality items such as household goods, clothes, books, toys, and food
Samaritans
Samaritans provides emotional support to people struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts. Last Christmas, volunteers responded to over 300,000 calls – including more than 10,000 on Christmas Day alone.
How you can help:
- Donate to support and expand their services
- Organise or join fundraising events – festive quizzes, runs, bake sales and more
- Volunteer to help at events or train to become a listening volunteer
Everyone deserves a merry Christmas
Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply reach out to someone who might be struggling – your kindness can make all the difference.
Let’s all do what we can to make this season a little brighter for everyone.