It's official: Brits are kinder and more generous over Christmas research reveals
Brits more likely to spread joy over Christmas by volunteering and giving to charity.
HarveyRidesBikes spreads Christmas cheer through London
More than a third of Brits are more inclined to perform random acts of kindness in December than any other time of the year. A poll of 2,000 adults found 34% have volunteered over the festive period, including at a soup kitchen, for charity, for community or school events. In comparison, 52% said they never offer out their own time for free across the rest of the year.
The research was commissioned by Santander, which partnered with influencer HarveyRidesBikes, who hit the streets of London dressed as Santa to surprise passersby with red chocolate coins and surprise gifts on a Santa-nder Cycle bike.
The study went on to find 33% typically donate to a food bank or charity in the run-up to Christmas. And 21% will check in on vulnerable people, like elderly relatives, in case they are experiencing loneliness during the festive period.
It emerged 19% are also more likely to cook for friends or neighbours in the final months of the year, or support local businesses when buying gifts (31%) as the festive spirit takes hold.
HarveyRidesBikes said: “Riding around on my bike handing out sweets has shown me how small acts of kindness really brings out the best in people - especially at Christmas.
“A quick chat, a shared laugh or checking in on someone lonely can make a real difference. It’s great to see the research confirm that the UK feels the same and isn’t a nation of Scrooges.”
The research also found nearly half (43%) of people think typically grumpy Brits perk up and are generally kinder around the Christmas period.
They say the enjoyment of giving their time and presents (39%) and making time to reflect on those less fortunate than themselves (38%) inspires this festive generosity, followed by films and books bringing the spirit of ‘kindness at Christmas’ (34%).
The study also found a 43% increase in smiling and general merriness in December during the build up to Christmas, compared to the rest of the year.
But make the most of the seasonal cheer, as January is when the frost returns - 18% shared the first month of the year is when Brits act the least kind, happy, or forgiving.
Josie Clapham, director of customers at Santander UK, said: “A little bit of kindness goes a long way, especially at Christmas.
“Our research shows just how kind the British public is at this time of year, with more people showing goodwill and looking out for others in their community.
“Christmas can be an expensive time, with many people searching for that perfect gift – but often nothing beats the gift of kindness.
“That’s why we’ve partnered with HarveyRidesBikes to surprise and delight Londoners with small gifts from a very festive Santander Cycle.”
THE TOP 10 ACTS OF KINDNESS BRITS WILL CARRY OUT TO SPREAD JOY THIS CHRISTMAS:
Donate food or toys to local charities and foodbanks
Supporting small or local businesses when present buying
Carving out more time to see friends and family
Checking in on vulnerable people or those who may be experiencing loneliness at Christmas
Cooking for other people, such as friends and neighbours
Giving genuine compliments to strangers
Leaving bigger tips for waiting staff
Being nicer to my work colleagues
Striking up conversation at times you usually wouldn’t, such as during my commute
Letting other Christmas shoppers skip my place in the queue
