Choosing the Perfect Smartphone as a Christmas Gift for Your Family

As Christmas approaches, the search for the perfect gift begins. 

Smartphones are a popular choice, combining practicality with a touch of tech-savvy appeal. 

However, selecting the right device for each family member can be challenging. 

Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect smartphone for everyone on your list.

1. Understand Their Needs

Each family member will have unique requirements. Consider the following:

Teens and Young Adults: They often prioritise social media, gaming, and photography. Look for phones with excellent cameras, fast processors, and ample storage.

Parents or Grandparents: Ease of use and reliability are key. A phone with a large display, simple interface, and good battery life is ideal.

Tech Enthusiasts: They’ll appreciate cutting-edge features like high refresh rate screens, powerful processors, or foldable designs.

2. Set a Budget

Smartphones come in a wide price range, from budget-friendly models to premium flagships. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and look for devices that offer the best value in that range.

Budget (<£200): Consider brands like Motorola, Nokia, or Xiaomi for affordable options with decent performance.

Mid-Range (£200-£500): Look at models from Samsung’s A-series, Google Pixel A-series, or OnePlus Nord.

Premium (> £500): Explore the latest iPhones, Samsung Galaxy S-series, or Google Pixel Pro models.

3. Choose the Right Operating System

The choice between Android and iOS is significant.

iOS (Apple): Known for its intuitive interface, seamless ecosystem, and regular updates. Ideal for users already invested in Apple products.

Android: Offers a wider variety of devices at different price points and more customisation options.

4. Key Features to Consider

Battery Life: Look for phones with at least 4,000mAh for all-day use.

Camera Quality: Important for photography enthusiasts; check for features like optical image stabilisation and low-light performance.

Storage: Aim for at least 128GB to avoid running out of space.

Durability: For active users or children, consider phones with water resistance or rugged cases.

5G Compatibility: Future-proofs the device for faster connectivity.

5. Research and Compare

Read reviews, watch video comparisons, and check user feedback. Websites like TechRadar, GSMArena, and Trusted Reviews offer detailed insights into the latest smartphones.

6. Consider Second-Hand or Refurbished Models

For premium features at a lower cost, explore refurbished options from reputable sellers. Ensure the device comes with a warranty and has been thoroughly tested.

7. Accessorise the Gift

Enhance your gift with accessories like protective cases, screen protectors, or wireless earbuds. These thoughtful additions can make the gift even more special.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a smartphone as a Christmas gift requires a balance of practicality and personalisation. By understanding your family members’ needs, setting a budget, and researching thoroughly, you can find a device that’s both functional and meaningful. Happy gifting!

How Your Christmas Dinner Could Be Contributing to Fine Lines and Wrinkles

We all love Christmas dinner. It’s a feast fit for royalty: Turkey with all the trimmings, mince pies, and, of course, a cheeky glass (or three) of mulled wine. 

But are you aware your festive favourites could be sneakily ageing your skin? That’s right, while your taste buds are celebrating, your skin might be paying the price. 

But don’t panic. We’re not here to be Scrooge about Christmas. But if you’ve been wondering why fine lines and wrinkles seem to pop up faster than Aunt Mary’s questionable Christmas jokes, we’ve got answers.

The Sugar Skin Saga

Let’s start with the sweet stuff. Christmas pud, chocolate boxes, and endless dessert spreads are all part of the festive fun. But sugar has a dark side. It triggers a process called glycation, where sugar molecules latch onto proteins in your skin like an unwanted guest. The result? Collagen and elastin—your skin’s natural scaffolding—get stiff and brittle. Goodbye, bounce. Hello, wrinkles.

Dr. Laura Geige, Senior Aesthetic Expert at It’s Me and You Aesthetic Clinic, explains: “Excess sugar can speed up skin ageing by damaging collagen and elastin. These are the proteins that keep your skin firm and smooth. The good news? Reducing sugar intake and using collagen-boosting skincare can help minimise the effects.”

Swap out sugar where you can. Try fruit platters instead of cake, or dark chocolate instead of milk. Your skin will thank you—plus, you’ll feel a little less like the Christmas pudding itself.

Alcohol: Festive Cheer or Skin’s Worst Nightmare?

A Christmas without booze is like a cracker without a bang, right? But alcohol dehydrates your skin faster than you can say “cheers.” 

Dehydration leaves your skin looking dull, tired, and more prone to fine lines. And let’s not forget the sugar content in those festive cocktails—talk about a double whammy!

Dr. Rimas Geiga, Senior Medical Expert at the clinic warns: “Alcohol doesn’t just dry out your skin; it also inflames it, too. This can break down collagen over time, leading to sagging and fine lines. Balancing alcohol with water and hydrating skincare can help counteract its effects.”

For every glass of wine, have a glass of water. Better yet, swap the cocktails for mocktails. Trust us, your skin (and your liver) will love you for it.

Too Much Salt: The Wrinkle Culprit You Didn’t See Coming

Those crisps, stuffing, and pigs in blankets might taste heavenly, but they’re loaded with salt. Salt makes your body retain water, which sounds good… until you realise it shows up as puffiness under your eyes and bloating in your face. Not the festive glow you were going for, is it?

Dr. Snieguole Geige, Medical Director at the clinic advises: “Salt dehydrates your body, which can lead to swollen, puffy skin. Over time, dehydration also affects elasticity, making fine lines more noticeable. Keeping hydrated and using products with hyaluronic acid can help maintain a plump, youthful look.”

Cut back on salty snacks and load up on potassium-rich foods such as bananas and spinach. They help counteract the effects of sodium in your diet.

Stress Eating: A Recipe for Wrinkles

The festive season is joyful, but it’s also stressful—shopping sprees, family feuds, and endless to-do lists. Stress causes your body to release cortisol, a hormone that breaks down collagen and accelerates ageing. And what do we do when we’re stressed? We eat. Usually, the wrong things, unfortunately.

Birute Sutkiene a Marketing Lead at the clinic says: “Stress eating is common during Christmas. Unfortunately, it often involves sugary or salty foods, which only compound skin issues. Managing stress is key—not just for your skin but for your overall health.” 

Swap stress eating for stress-busting. Try a brisk winter walk, meditation, or even belting out Last Christmas in the shower.

Bounce Back with Smart Skin Solutions

Worried your Christmas dinner is showing up on your face? Don’t fret. You don’t have to ditch the mince pies and prosecco completely. But balance is key—and so is looking after your skin. Dr. Laura Geige suggests: “Investing in treatments like hydrating facials or dermal fillers can help combat the visible effects of diet-related ageing. They work to plump, smooth, and restore your skin’s youthful glow, even after the indulgences of Christmas.”

That's Christmas would like to thank Dr. Laura Geige, Senior Aesthetic Expert at It’s Me and You Aesthetic Clinic and her colleagues for helping with blogpost.

You can learn more here:- https://itsmeandyou.co.uk

"No" Is a Complete Sentence: Setting Boundaries During the Christmas Season

Sometimes we must say "No"

The festive season is a time for giving, sharing, and celebrating with loved ones. However, for many, it can also be a season where their good nature is taken advantage of. 

Whether it’s being asked to take on extra responsibilities, overspending on gifts, or hosting more guests than you can comfortably manage, the pressure to please everyone can leave you feeling drained and resentful.

If you find yourself in this position, it’s essential to remember one simple but powerful truth: "No" is a complete sentence. You don’t owe anyone an elaborate explanation for protecting your time, energy, and resources. 

This blog post will explore why setting boundaries is vital during the holidays and how to handle those who might exploit your generosity.

Why Setting Boundaries Matters

Christmastime is often romanticised as a time of joy and togetherness, but the reality can be more complex. 

Overextending yourself can lead to burnout, strained relationships, and a diminished ability to enjoy the season. 

By setting boundaries, you’re not being selfish: You’re merely prioritising your well-being and ensuring you can fully engage with the moments that truly matter.

The Power of "No"

Saying "no" can feel uncomfortable, especially if you’re a naturally accommodating person. But consider this: every time you say "yes" to something that doesn’t align with your values or capacity, you’re saying "no" to something else—often your own peace of mind.

Here are some ways to assertively say "no":

Be direct: “No, I’m unable to do that.”

Stay firm: If someone pushes back, repeat your stance without wavering. “I understand, but my answer is still no.”

Keep it simple: You don’t need to justify your decision. A polite but firm response is enough.

How to Handle Christmas Exploiters

Unfortunately, some people see the Christmas season as an opportunity to take advantage of others’ generosity. Here’s how to deal with them:

Identify the patterns: Are certain individuals always asking for favours, expecting you to host, or pressuring you to spend beyond your means? Recognising these patterns is the first step to breaking them.

Set clear expectations: If you’ve always been the go-to person for hosting or gift-giving, let others know in advance that this year will be different. For example, “This year, I’ll only be hosting immediate family” or “I’m keeping gifts simple and within a set budget.”

Redirect the responsibility: If someone asks you to take on something you can’t or don’t want to do, suggest an alternative. For instance, “I can’t bake biscuits for the party, but perhaps Sarah could help out?”

Use the broken record technique: If someone persists, calmly repeat your boundary. Avoid getting drawn into a debate or feeling pressured to change your mind.

Know your worth: Remember that your value isn’t tied to how much you give or do for others. True relationships are built on mutual respect and understanding, not on how much you sacrifice.

Practical Tips for a Balanced Christmas

Plan ahead: Decide what you’re willing to do and spend during the holidays, and stick to it. Having a clear plan makes it easier to say "no" to last-minute requests.

Delegate: If you’re hosting, don’t hesitate to ask others to bring a dish or help with preparations.

Take breaks: Schedule time for yourself to recharge, whether it’s a quiet evening with a book or a walk in the fresh air.

Celebrate your way: The holidays don’t have to look a certain way. Focus on traditions and activities that bring you joy and skip the rest.

A Final Thought

Christmas is meant to be a time of joy, not a test of how much you can endure. By setting and maintaining boundaries, you’re giving yourself the gift of peace and ensuring you can fully enjoy the season. 

So the next time someone tries to pile another task onto your already full plate, remember: "No" is a complete sentence.

Here’s to a Christmas season filled with joy, balance, and the courage to put yourself first.

Festive Fun: Giving Your Pets Safe and Appropriate Treats This Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy, family, and indulgence, and our beloved pets are very much part of the festivities. 

However, as we spoil ourselves with delicious treats and thoughtful gifts, it’s essential to ensure that our furry friends receive safe and suitable goodies too. 

Here’s a guide to making this Christmas merry and safe for your pets.

1. Treats to Treasure: Safe Festive Snacks

While sharing food with pets can be tempting, many human treats are unsafe for animals. Here are some tips for giving your pets safe and healthy snacks:

Stick to Pet-Specific Treats: Opt for treats made specifically for your pet species. These are formulated to meet their dietary needs and avoid harmful ingredients.

Avoid Toxic Foods: Foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and anything containing xylitol are dangerous for both cats and dogs. Be mindful of what’s left out on tables or within paw’s reach.

DIY Pet Treats: Homemade treats can be a fun and rewarding option. Simple recipes using pet-safe ingredients like peanut butter (xylitol-free), pumpkin, or cooked lean meats are great options. Just ensure you follow recipes specifically designed for pets.

Moderation is Key: Even with pet-safe treats, avoid overindulging your pet to prevent upset stomachs or weight gain.

2. Perfect Presents for Your Pets

Gifting your pet something special doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some ideas to ensure your gift is both fun and safe:

Interactive Toys: Puzzle feeders, balls, and chew toys are excellent for keeping pets entertained and mentally stimulated. Choose toys that are appropriately sized and made from durable, non-toxic materials.

Cosy Comforts: A new bed, blanket, or even a festive jumper for dogs can make your pet’s Christmas extra special. Ensure clothing is well-fitted and doesn’t restrict movement or breathing.

Chews for Chewers: For pets who love to chew, natural chews like antlers, dental sticks, or chew-safe toys can keep them occupied and support dental health.

Subscription Boxes: Pet subscription boxes filled with toys, treats, and surprises can be a delightful gift that keeps giving.

3. Festive Safety Tips

Amidst the celebrations, it’s easy to overlook potential hazards. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your pet’s safety:

Christmas Tree Caution: Secure your tree to prevent it from toppling over, and avoid decorations like tinsel or glass baubles, which can be harmful if ingested or broken.

Christmas lights: Consider using battery-powered Christmas lights rather than mains-powered Christmas lights.

Beware of Wrapping Materials: Ribbons, string, and wrapping paper can pose choking hazards. Dispose of these items promptly after unwrapping gifts.

Monitor Gift Contents: If your pet has a habit of tearing into presents, keep all gifts containing food or unsafe items out of reach.

Quiet Space: The excitement of Christmas can be overwhelming for pets. Provide a quiet, comfortable space where they can retreat if needed.

4. Celebrate Responsibly

Remember, the best gift you can give your pet is your time and attention. Whether it’s a long walk, an extra cuddle, or a play session with their new toy, your presence means the world to them.

By choosing safe treats and presents, you’re ensuring that your pet’s Christmas is as joyous and stress-free as possible. Here’s to a festive season filled with wagging tails, purring cuddles, happy whistling and happy memories for the whole family.

With a little planning and care, your pets can join in the Christmas fun safely and happily. Treat them with love, spoil them with appropriate goodies, and enjoy the festive season together. Merry Christmas to you and your furry or feathered companions!

How Your SME Can Get Involved in Local Community Christmas Campaigns and Initiatives

The festive season is a wonderful time for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to engage with their local community. 

Not only does it spread Christmas cheer, but it also strengthens your business’s reputation and fosters goodwill among your customers. 

Here are some practical ways your SME can participate in local Christmas campaigns and initiatives.

1. Partner with Local Charities

Christmas is a time of giving, and many charities run special campaigns during this season. Partnering with a local charity can be a great way to make a difference. Here’s how:

Sponsor a Christmas Drive: Support food banks, toy drives, or clothing collections by providing donations or offering your premises as a drop-off location.

Host Fundraising Events: Organise a festive event, such as a Christmas jumper day or bake sale, with proceeds going to a local charity.

Volunteer Your Time: Encourage your team to volunteer at shelters, soup kitchens, or charity events.

2. Support Local Schools and Youth Groups

Getting involved with schools and youth organisations not only helps young people but also strengthens your ties to the community.

Sponsor a School Play or Concert: Many schools host Christmas performances and would appreciate support with funding or resources.

Offer Work Experience Opportunities: Provide local students with short-term internships to learn about your business during the Chirstmas period, if practicable.

Donate Supplies: Consider contributing decorations, treats, or gifts for school Christmas parties.

3. Participate in Local Events

Many towns and cities host Christmas markets, parades, or light switch-on events. These provide excellent opportunities to engage with the community.

Set Up a Stall: Showcase your products or services at a local Christmas market. Include festive promotions to attract customers.

Sponsor an Event: Help fund a community event in exchange for brand visibility.

Join a Parade: If there’s a Christmas parade, consider entering a float or sponsoring one.

4. Run Your Own Campaigns

If there’s no suitable initiative in your area, why not create your own?

Adopt a Family: Work with local organisations to provide gifts or essentials to families in need.

Host a Festive Open Day: Invite the community to visit your premises for mince pies, mulled wine, and a tour of your business.

Create a Giving Tree: Set up a Christmas tree where customers and employees can donate gifts for those less fortunate.

5. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses

Joining forces with other SMEs can amplify your impact and foster a sense of community among local businesses.

Organise a Shop Local Campaign: Encourage customers to support local businesses by offering joint promotions or creating a festive shopping trail.

Host a Joint Event: Partner with neighbouring businesses for a larger-scale Christmas event, such as a holiday fair.

Create a Collective Charity Drive: Pool resources with other businesses to maximise contributions to local charities.

6. Spread the Word

No matter how you choose to get involved, make sure people know about it. Use your social media platforms, email newsletters, and website to promote your efforts and encourage participation.

Share Stories: Post updates and photos of your campaigns to inspire others and highlight the positive impact your business is making.

Engage Customers: Invite your customers to join your initiatives, whether by donating, volunteering, or attending events.

Thank Participants: Show appreciation to everyone who contributes, from employees to customers and community members.

Getting involved in local Christmas campaigns is a win-win for your SME and the community. It’s an opportunity to give back, connect with your audience on a deeper level, and make the festive season a little brighter for everyone. Start planning now to ensure your efforts have the greatest possible impact.

M&S and Around Noon: A Winning Partnership Bringing Festive Sandwich Magic to Christmas 2024

Marks & Spencer (M&S) is proud to celebrate its partnership with locally-based Around Noon, the award-winning food-to-go producer based in Newry. 

Together, they’ve unveiled this year’s eagerly-anticipated M&S Christmas sandwich range, ready to delight their customers.

Using only the finest locally sourced ingredients, the Around Noon team's crafted a range of exciting flavours that capture the essence of Christmas in every single bite. 

Key to this year’s magic are Marian Myles, M&S Product Developer for Ireland and Northern Ireland, and Tori Laverty, Around Noon’s New Product Development Manager, whose creativity and passion have shaped every sandwich in the range.

From perfecting the balance of turkey and stuffing to creating standout flavours like the new and indulgent Yule Spiced Beef sandwich, every detail of the range has been meticulously designed.

Around Noon supplies hundreds of thousands of sandwiches to all 38 M&S stores across the island of Ireland, as well as to 21 M&S Applegreen franchise sites.

Speaking about her role, Marian said: "Designing the Christmas range is a dream job – it’s all about channelling the joy and comfort of the season into something you can taste. Seeing our ideas come to life on M&S shelves is incredibly rewarding."

Tori added: "Christmas is such a special time, and our sandwiches are a part of so many festive moments. We put our hearts into making sure every detail is just right – from the flavours to the presentation."

The M&S and Around Noon partnership highlights M&S’s commitment to supporting local suppliers while delivering exceptional quality and innovation for customers. Each Christmas, Around Noon produces tens of thousands of sandwiches to meet festive demand, showcasing Northern Ireland’s expertise on a national stage.

In true festive spirit, the Around Noon team is not just focusing on 2024 but is already hard at work developing the 2025 Christmas sandwich range. This forward-thinking approach ensures that M&S stays at the forefront of festive food innovation, offering customers new and exciting choices year after year.

Speaking about the partnership, Laura Harper, M&S Trading Director for Ireland and Northern Ireland said: “Our collaboration with Around Noon is a shining example of the magic that happens when local expertise meets M&S quality, innovation, and taste. The team’s creativity and dedication are second to none, and we’re thrilled to bring their incredible sandwiches to our customers this Christmas, offering exceptional value and delicious food-on-the-move."

Philip Morgan, Sales Director at Around Noon added: "We’re delighted to partner with M&S to deliver this year’s Christmas sandwich range. Our team has worked round the clock to create something truly special for 2024, and we’re already full of festive cheer as we develop exciting new flavours for 2025.”

The 2024 Christmas range is available now in M&S stores nationwide and features something for everyone:

Turkey Feast: An iconic classic, it is filled with Irish turkey, smoked bacon and a sage and onion stuffing, complimented with a caramelised onion mayo and cranberry sauce, bringing holiday cheer to your taste buds.

All Wrapped Up: Is a new addition this year and captures the essence of the season, it is loaded with Irish turkey, Irish ham, sage and onion stuffing and spinach, and complimented with caramelised onion mayo, and cranberry sauce ‘all wrapped up’.

Brie & Cranberry: A tasty vegetarian favourite returning from 2022, with slices of French Brie paired with Cranberry sauce and spinach, it is sure to be a cheese lovers’ favourite.

Yule Spiced Beef Sandwich: Is a modern twist on tradition, bringing together Irish spiced beef and Irish mature cheddar, with sauerkraut, gherkins, and mustard mayo on a delicious pretzel roll.

All are sure to get you in Christmas the spirit with your favourite festive flavours. These festive offerings are sure to bring joy to every bite and get you in the Christmas spirit with their seasonal flavours.

Hungry Marks and Spencer customers in the rest of the UK should look out for their own local festive sandwich offerings.

Sprouts to be up to 25% bigger this Christmas thanks to new varieties

Sprouts this year, at least those sold at Tesco branches, are likely to be up to 25% bigger this Christmas. 

But not only will they be larger, they'e also likely to be more tasty, too, due to a combination of good growing conditions and new varieties that are more suited to the our climate and soil types.

This year Tesco has been working with suppliers such as T H Clements in Lincolnshire and Drysdale, in Berwickshire, Scotland, to find varieties that are hardier and better able to thrive in the UKs climate.

This follows on from a challenging growing season last year when heavy rainfall in late November and throughout December led to a poorer than normal yield and crop. 

Says Tesco sprout buyer Simon Tenwick: “We’ve been working hard this year to bring in new varieties that are assisting us deliver a better tasting sprout with a crunchier texture and a perfect size.

“The quality of the festive crop that's been coming through in the last few weeks is among the best we’ve had in recent years and we are certain sprout fans will be absolutely delighted.”

T H Clements said that poor harvesting conditions last year led to the average sprout size being 24mm in diameter but this year, thanks to the new varieties, they are 30mm in size.

Last year heavy rainfall continued throughout much of the autumn as a result of Storm Babet and instead of the colder weather needed to ‘finish off’ the sprouts in late November and early December, it continued to be mild and wet.

T H Clements Commercial Director John Moulding said: “This year we’ve pretty much had a reversal in growing conditions to 2023 with the right amounts of warmth and sunshine during the summer months after they were planted, good amounts of rain during the autumn and now colder weather in December.

“We’ve worked hard over the last year to improve not only this year’s crop but future crop yields too, starting by the selection of new land to plant the sprouts. The alluvial silts, only found on Lincolnshire's east coast.

“The silts are situated in different growing areas that all have their own microclimates and coastal frost protection. Sprouts enjoy the breeze of the coast that gives frost protection.”

In the run-up to Christmas T H Clements will run up to 16 harvesters, working literally around the clock, to provide Britain with 192 million sprouts!

Morrisons cuts price of classic Christmas veg to just 10p to help all customers tuck into a full roast

Morrisons is cutting the price of vegetables that are a vital part of any Christmas dinner to ensure all customers can enjoy a full, hearty roast on the big day.

Morrisons More Card holders can pick-up British Carrots (1kg), British Parsnips (500g), British Brussel Sprouts (500g) and a British Whole Swede for just 10p each from 18th December until 24th December.

And what's more, all customers can get British Best Potatoes (2kg) for half-price in store now, costing £1.15 until January 1st.

Morrisons is British farming’s biggest direct customer and recently announced it's to bring forward its planned financial support to better help the nation’s growers. 

Over £1.4 billion has been committed to British farming annually besides giving the 2,500 farmers who work with Morrisons a 5% discount to use in stores and online and a further 25% discount on all its café food and drink nationwide every Tuesday.

Fraser Lovatt, who is Category Director of Produce & Horticulture at Morrisons, said: “No Christmas dinner is complete without all the trimmings of the seasonal vegetables. 

"By reducing the costs of products such as carrots, parsnips, sprouts and potatoes, we're helping customers get all they need for the perfect festive roast without breaking the bank. Selling more of these products also stops them from going to waste and enables us to give more back to our important network of British farmers.”

With Christmas just around the corner, Morrisons is also slashing the cost of other festive favourites. Customers can save 50% on Market Street Whole Salmon, on offer at just £7.50/kg (usually £15/kg) from now until 5th January in-store nationwide. 

More Card holders can also benefit from a half price saving on Charles De Villiers Champagne Brut 75cl at just £12.50 (usually £25) until 1st January or pick up a bottle of Sorso Prosecco Spumante for just £4.75 (usually £6.50), perfect to accompany any festive celebration.

Inspired by billionaire John Caudwell : A 7 year old’s decision sparks a wave of generosity this Christmas

In an extraordinary act of generosity, 7-year-old James “JC” Connor has shown the true spirit of Christmas by choosing to donate a special prize to raise funds for his school, rather than keep it for himself. 

His selfless act serves as a heartwarming reminder of the power of giving during the holiday season.

Instead of accepting a private suite to the Disney on Ice event at the O2 Arena, a VIP experience his parents won through a charity auction, JC decided to raffle it off and donate the proceeds to his school. Inspired by his parents, Stephen and Ha Smith, who recently joined the John Caudwell’s Philanthropy Group, The Life Changers Circle, JC was motivated to make a difference in his community.

“We won the private suite at a charity auction aimed at raising funds for supporting care workers, and we thought JC would love to invite his friends,” said his father, Stephen Smith. “But when he told us he wanted to use it to raise money for his school, we were truly amazed.”

JC’s passion for philanthropy began when he was elected by his class mates to become a school councillor. 

At his first meeting, he learned that the school needed a new climbing frame for the younger students. Inspired by this, JC decided to raise the necessary funds.

“He came home and told me the Reception Year children needed a new climbing frame, and he was determined to raise the money for it,” said his mother, Ha Smith. “We are so proud of his initiative.”

Instead of keeping the highly coveted prize, JC chose to raffle it off to help others. “I saw my parents helping others, and I wanted to do something special for my school too. It feels really good to help people,” said JC.

And this is not the first time that young JC has looked to support his school. Last year he helped organise a group of children from the school to participate in an opening event with Queen Camilla which ended with JC handing Camilla a posy of flowers.

The funds raised through the raffle will directly support educational programs, school supplies, and extracurricular activities at Our Lady & St John’s (OLSJ) Primary School, ensuring that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.

The raffle prize—a private suite at the much-anticipated Disney on Ice show at the O2 Arena—was highly sought after. Despite the initial temptation to keep it for himself, JC chose to offer it to others, with all proceeds benefiting his school. His selflessness and determination have left a lasting impact on both his peers and the local community.

"The Life Changers Circle focuses on a number of children-based charities but also acts as as a catalyst to inspire the next generation to make meaningful contributions to society, and so we couldn’t be prouder of our son for embodying these values," said Stephen and Ha Smith, who recently joined the Circle. "Seeing him choose to help others, even when it meant sacrificing something he really wanted, is a true testament to the power of giving."

John Caudwell, founder of The Life Changers Circle, praised JC’s generosity. “In these challenging times, charity is more important than ever, and JC’s selflessness is an example for us all,” he said.

Not stopping there, JC asked his parents to create a JustGiving page to raise additional funds. To date, he has raised an impressive £5,630, with contributions from family, friends, and the local community. 

When added to the monies that JC has raised through the Raffle he will have raised well over £7000 for the school that he loves so much.

This heartfelt gesture has caught the attention of the local community, with many praising JC for his mature understanding of generosity at such a young age. His school’s principal, Mrs. Cunningham, expressed admiration for his actions.

“We are incredibly proud of James Connor for demonstrating such a powerful message about the importance of giving, especially at a time when we are reminded of how essential it is to support one another. His actions inspire us all to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas,” said Mrs. Cunningham.

In a world often focused on materialism, JC stands as a beacon of kindness. His parents expressed their pride in their son’s compassionate decision, saying, “We are so proud of JC for choosing to help others. It’s moments like these that remind us all of the importance of kindness and giving back.”

This Christmas, James Connor has reminded us that the greatest gifts are those that come from the heart. His actions serve as a beautiful example of how one person’s decision to put others first can spark a wave of goodwill and generosity.

For more information or to contribute, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jc

James “JC” Connor is a 7-year-old student at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School in Brentford, West London, known for his infectious enthusiasm and big heart. 

This Christmas, he has made a significant impact through his selfless fundraising efforts, proving that even the youngest among us can make a world of difference.

Give the Gift of Sustainability: Recycling Unwanted Christmas Gifts

Christmas is a time of giving and receiving, but not every gift hits the mark. 

Perhaps it’s a jumper that doesn’t quite fit, a book you’ve already read, or a gadget you simply don’t need. 

While it can be tempting to stash these items away or, worse, throw them out, there are far better ways to ensure these gifts find a loving home while reducing waste.

Why Recycling Gifts Matters

Each year, millions of pounds of unwanted items end up in landfills, contributing to environmental harm. By recycling your unwanted gifts, you not only give the item a second chance but also help others in need. Many people rely on charity shops or affordable gift exchanges to access items they might not otherwise afford. It’s a win-win for you, the environment, and someone else who might treasure what you’ve been given.

How to Recycle Unwanted Gifts

Here are a few practical and impactful ways to ensure your unwanted gifts are put to good use:

Donate to a Charity Shop

Charity shops are always in need of good-quality items. Whether it’s clothing, books, homeware, or toys, your donation can directly support charitable causes. Ensure the items are in good condition, as most shops cannot accept damaged goods. Simply drop them off at your local charity shop and feel good knowing your gift is helping to fund vital services.

Participate in a Gift Exchange Scheme

Gift exchange schemes or "regifting" events are becoming increasingly popular. These allow you to swap your unwanted items for something you’d actually use. Look for local community events, workplace gift swaps, or even online platforms where you can trade items with others.

Sell or Give Away Online

Platforms like eBay, Vinted, or Facebook Marketplace make it easy to pass on unwanted items. Alternatively, you can use freecycling websites to give away items at no cost. This ensures your gift finds a new home while reducing waste.

Host a Post-Holiday Swap Party

Invite friends and family to bring their unwanted gifts to a fun swap party. Everyone leaves with something they like, and nothing goes to waste. It’s a great way to turn post-Christmas blues into a joyful event.

Consider Upcycling

For the creatively inclined, unwanted gifts can become raw materials for new projects. A scarf could become part of a quilt, or an outdated piece of decor could be transformed with a little DIY magic. Upcycling not only saves items from the bin but also allows you to create something unique.

Tips for Thoughtful Recycling

Check Local Guidelines: Some charity shops have specific rules about what they can and cannot accept, so it’s worth checking before you donate.

Keep It Seasonal: If you’re donating Christmas-themed items, try to do so well in advance of the next holiday season to ensure they’ll be useful.

Be Honest About Condition: Only donate items in good, clean, and working condition. Broken or heavily worn items are unlikely to be of use.

Make Sustainability Part of Your Gifting Tradition

To reduce the likelihood of unwanted gifts in the first place, consider adopting more sustainable gifting practices. These might include giving experiences rather than things, creating a wish list, or opting for homemade or consumable gifts like baked goods.

By taking the time to recycle unwanted gifts thoughtfully, you’re not only honouring the spirit of giving but also contributing to a more sustainable future. So, this Christmas, let’s ensure that no gift goes to waste!