Only 1 in 10 put the office Christmas party at the top of their work wish list

New research from Moonpig for business reveals during the festive party season, 17% of UK workers would rather untangle a box of fairy lights than attend their office Christmas party.

In a survey of 2,000 UK employees, seven in ten (70%) said that celebrating Christmas at work helps them feel more connected to their team. 

Yet when asked what they’d really value from their employer this festive season, only one in ten (11%) chose an office party as their top Christmas wish, with 60% saying they’d like an extra day off, while one in five (21%) would most like to receive a thoughtful, physical gift from their employer.

Although most people enjoy some workplace festive cheer, more than half (52%) of employees said they’d rather spend a night in watching Christmas films than go to the office party, with others confessing they’d choose to untangle a box of fairy lights (17%) or even visit the dentist (14%) than join the festivities.

And when it comes to the seating plan, opinions are just as divided. When asked who they’d least like to sit next to at the office Christmas do, nearly a third (32%) of Brits named the boss, while HR (16%) and IT (13%) also ranked high on the list. The marketing team was the least avoided, with just 5% choosing not to sit next to them.

Nickyl Raithatha, CEO at Moonpig, told That's Christmas 365: “Christmas is a time for connection, and it’s great to see so many people value celebrating with their colleagues. Knowing your team and what makes them tick is essential when it comes to selecting the right kind of gift. 

"This knowledge will ultimately have the best impact in your decision making, be it a big party, a thoughtful gift or a simple thank you. At Moonpig for business, we believe it’s those thoughtful touches that make people feel truly seen and appreciated, and that’s what brings teams closer together.”

Designed to make appreciation easier for organisations of every size, Moonpig for business helps people and companies share that heartfelt feeling all year round. The platform allows businesses to send branded and personalised cards and curated gifts at scale, so that gratitude and connection don’t get lost in the seasonal rush – or any time of year.

https://www.moonpig.com/uk/business

Moonpig for business helps organisations recognise and reward employees and clients through branded, personalised cards and curated gifts. The platform simplifies appreciation at scale, with automation tools to schedule greetings, upload bulk contacts, and personalise messages in minutes.

Recycling gets binned at Christmas as consumers struggle with an avalanche of festive waste

Over half of people admit they recycle less at Christmas as they are overwhelmed by packaging, wrapping paper and cards.

A new survey from specialist waste management company Sortera UK, reveals confusion over festive bin collection days and a lack of space for rubbish are major reasons why recycling habits slip during the holiday season.

The surge in waste means 80% of consumers end up with at least one extra bag of rubbish after Christmas, whilst almost one in three households say they put out three or more additional bags on bin day.

Furthermore, over 50% of people recycle less at Christmas than they do throughout the rest of the year. Why? Because many feel unsure about what’s recyclable, struggle to find the time, or simply run out of space as recycling bins overflow with festive packaging.

Sortera’s MD, Jonathan Younger, told That's Christmas 365 that the problem spikes at exactly the time households should be recycling more, “Christmas waste doubles, sometimes even triples, but recycling rates go the other way. People feel overwhelmed and the bins fill up fast. 

"The good news is that with a bit of planning, it’s still easy to stay on top of recycling and make sure things go in the right bins.”

Commenting on the survey results, Adam Herriott, Senior Specialist at WRAP said, “Last Christmas brought a surge of packaging and Christmas wrapping into our homes and, when the bins start to overflow, it’s easy to think 'Santa Baby bring me a bit more space'. 

"The good news is that a few simple habits can make sure your day runs smoothly. Simple steps such as flattening boxes, reusing gift packaging, and checking any changes to local collections all help keep valuable materials in circulation.”

Sortera has launched a simple, practical Christmas Waste Guide, packed with tips for reducing waste, to help consumers stay green during the holidays.

Jonathan adds, “Small changes make a big difference. One of my favourites is switching from wrapping paper to reusable gift bags. They look great, save loads of time and can be used again and again, just don’t write on the tag.”

The Sortera Green Christmas Guide is available at https://shop.sortera.co.uk/recycling-at-christmas

Key Findings from the Sortera Christmas Waste Survey

• 82% of respondents said they had to deal with extra waste over Christmas.

• 80% have at least one extra bin bag of rubbish

• One third admit they have at least three additional bin bags.

• 80% blame it on too much packaging from gifts

• Nearly 75% blamed wrapping paper and cards

• Nearly a third say there is not enough space in bins at Christmas

• 20% say there is confusion over Christmas bin collection days.

• Over 50% are less likely to recycle as required after Christmas.

A Third of Brits Are Feeling the Heat Over Cooking the Christmas Turkey, says MEATER

New MEATER survey reveals that three quarters of the nation are simply winging it.

A new festive survey from MEATER has revealed that the Christmas turkey, the shining centrepiece of the big day’ dinner, is causing more stress than sparkle for British households this year. 

In fact, a third of Brits admit they’re feeling the pressure when it comes to roasting the star of the show.

Top Turkey Worries This Christmas:

• 25% worry about overcooking or undercooking

• 23% stress over timing the turkey with the rest of the feast

• 20% fret about keeping the bird juicy and full of festive flavour

Add concerns about oven space and accidentally forgetting to defrost the turkey, and it’s no wonder the nation is feeling the festive frazzle. Luckily, once the bird is finally cooked, confidence kicks in, with only 10% admitting they still worry about carving it.

The survey, which quizzed Brits on their Christmas cooking habits, also shed light on where the nation is picking up its prized festive bird. 

Unsurprisingly, supermarkets reign supreme for turkey shopping: Tesco leads, with over a third of Brits choosing to buy their bird there, followed by Sainsbury’s, which is the preferred choice for around a quarter, and Asda, selected by a fifth. 

Respondents revealed that price and quality were the main factors behind their supermarket of choice.

When it comes to cooking, over half of us check whether our turkey is done by slicing into it to inspect the colour, while 15% rely on gut instinct alone and 10% confess they simply “just guess”, truly living on the edge of festive fate.

Turkey tragedies aren’t exactly rare either. 1 in 5 Brits have suffered a turkey disaster in years gone by, with over a third reporting dried-out or burnt birds. 

But dryness isn’t the only mishap plaguing households. Survey respondents also admitted to having the family cat or dog steal the turkey, discovering they’d left the giblets inside, and realising their roasting tin didn’t actually fit in the oven. A Christmas spirit crushing moment for any Christmas cook.

It seems that while Christmas is full of magic, it’s also full of memorable mishaps.

Some might wonder whether all this turkey turmoil is worth it, especially since half the nation rarely (or never) cooks turkey outside of Christmas! Yet tradition wins. For almost 50% of Brits, Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas without the big bird adorning the table.

That said, turkey isn’t going it alone. Almost 9 in 10 Brits cook additional meats on Christmas Day or replace turkey altogether. Chicken is the top alternative for those who feel turkey is too expensive, while beef and gammon remain festive favourites steeped in tradition.

With households catering for larger gatherings than usual, the pressure to deliver a perfect roast is higher than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. But as smart technology becomes a staple in modern kitchens, festive cooking might just become a little merrier.

Two thirds of Brits said they would find a device that monitors the turkey and tells them exactly when it’s perfectly cooked to be helpful. Brits are ready to ditch guesswork and embrace gadget-powered perfection. After all, no one wants to be remembered for serving a turkey that’s drier than the Boxing Day jokes.

MEATER told That's Christmas 365: "Our survey uncovered everything from overcooked birds to undercooked birds, accidentally roasted giblets, and even the occasional dog making off with Christmas dinner, so it’s clear the nation’s festive kitchens are full of surprises. 

"It’s no shock, then, that two thirds of Brits said they’d welcome a device that monitors the Turkey throughout the cook and lets them know them when the Turkey’s perfectly ready. A smart meat thermometer brings a bit of calm to the chaos, leaving everyone free to enjoy the fun (and keep an eye on the family pet)."

Festive Turkey-Prep Reminders (Inspired by Real Disasters!)

To keep your Christmas running smoothly this year, here are a few merry must-remembers:

• Allow plenty of time for defrosting, it’s not a snowman, so the sooner the better.

• Check the turkey for giblets before it goes into the oven.

• Measure your roasting tray and oven in advance to avoid a Christmas morning geometry crisis.

• Makes sure the oven is up to temperature (it helps not to get drunk before dinner is served)

• Keep pets away from the cooling turkey (they’re faster than you think).

• And of course: use a meat thermometer so you’re not relying on guesswork or festive luck.

How to Save Forgotten or Missing Christmas Gifts with the That’s Christmas 365 Amazon-Powered Shop

Forgotten or missing Christmas gifts? Use the That’s Christmas 365 Amazon-powered shop for fast Amazon Prime deliveries or instant online gift certificates.

It happens every year. A name slips off the list. A delivery goes astray. An unexpected gift is required. Or a parcel is delayed just long enough to tip festive calm into mild panic. 

The good news? Forgotten or missing Christmas gifts don’t have to spoil the day.

With the That’s Christmas 365 Amazon-powered online shop, you can rescue Christmas quickly, discreetly and (most importantly) in time.

When Christmas Gifts Go Missing (or Never Got Bought)

Common festive mishaps include:

A courier delay caused by weather or seasonal demand

A gift bought too late to arrive on time

A sudden realisation that someone has been overlooked

A present that arrives damaged, wrong, or simply… not very festive

Instead of dashing to crowded shops or apologising with an IOU, there’s a far simpler fix.

Fast Fix #1: Amazon Prime Pre-Christmas Deliveries

Our Amazon-powered shop lets you tap straight into Amazon Prime delivery options, which can be a genuine Christmas lifesaver.

Why Prime Delivery Works for Christmas Emergencies

Next-day or same-day delivery on thousands of gift items

Reliable tracking, even during the busiest festive period

Delivered directly to the recipient, saving time and wrapping stress

Wide choice, from books and food gifts to tech, toys and home treats

If a gift hasn’t arrived, simply choose a thoughtful replacement and have it delivered before Christmas Day – often within hours.

Fast Fix #2: Online Gift Certificates (Instant & Stress-Free)

When time is truly against you, digital gift certificates are your best friend.

Why Online Gift Certificates Are a Brilliant Backup

Delivered instantly by email

No delivery delays or missed parcels

Ideal for friends, family, neighbours and colleagues

Perfect for last-minute or forgotten gifts

You can still make it feel personal by printing the voucher, popping it in a card, or sending it with a thoughtful message on Christmas morning.

Thoughtful Gifts, Not Panic Buys

Because the That’s Christmas 365 shop is curated with Christmas in mind, you’re not scrambling through random products. You’ll find:

Proper festive gifts (not desperation purchases)

Items suitable for all ages and budgets

Gifts that feel intentional, even when bought late

Nobody needs to know it was a Christmas Eve rescue.

A Little Christmas Wisdom

Christmas isn’t about perfection. It’s about thought, kindness and showing people you care. 

When things go wrong, and they sometimes do, using a trusted, fast and flexible solution keeps the focus where it belongs.

The That’s Christmas 365 Amazon-powered online shop exists for exactly these moments.

So if a parcel goes missing, a name gets forgotten, or time runs out, don’t panic. Christmas can still be saved – and saved well.

Because Christmas happens every day here at That’s Christmas 365.

You can access our shopfront here https://amzn.to/46Bfpyf

What to Do If Your Christmas Travel Plans Are Thwarted

Christmas travel is often wrapped up in excitement, tradition and expectation. 

Whether you’re heading home to family, travelling to friends, or setting off for a festive break, the journey itself becomes part of the story of Christmas. 

Unfortunately, winter weather, road accidents, strikes, cancellations and other disruptions don’t always share our festive goodwill.

If your Christmas travel plans are suddenly derailed, here’s how to handle the situation with as little stress, and as much Christmas spirit, as possible.

Take a Breath Before You Take Action

The first thing to do is pause. Travel disruption is frustrating, especially when you’re tired, cold, hungry or under time pressure, but panicking rarely improves the situation.

Take a moment to:

Check official updates from transport providers or highways agencies

Confirm exactly what has been cancelled, delayed or closed

Avoid relying solely on rumours or social media speculation

Clear information helps you make better decisions.

Prioritise Safety Above All Else

If bad weather or road conditions are the cause of disruption, safety must come first. No Christmas meal, gift exchange or tradition is worth risking your life for.

If you are driving:

Do not attempt to continue in unsafe conditions

Use official advice from police or highways services

Pull over somewhere safe if visibility or road grip deteriorates

If public transport has been suspended due to weather or incidents, it is usually for good reason.

Explore Alternative Routes and Options

Once you understand the nature of the disruption, consider your alternatives:

Different routes: Another motorway, A-road or rail line may still be open

Different timings: Travelling earlier or later may reduce congestion or allow services to resume

Different transport: Switching from rail to coach, or vice versa, may be possible

Be realistic about what is achievable and avoid rushing into risky decisions.

Know Your Rights If Strikes or Cancellations Are Involved

If your plans are disrupted by strikes or service cancellations, you may have rights to refunds, rebooking or compensation.

Rail and coach operators often allow fee-free changes during disruption

Airlines may offer rerouting or refunds depending on circumstances

Travel insurance can be invaluable if accommodation or onward travel is affected

Keep tickets, receipts and confirmations handy.

Have a Christmas ‘Plan B’

Flexibility is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself at Christmas. If travel becomes impossible:

Can celebrations be postponed by a day or two?

Can part of the gathering be held virtually?

Could Christmas be celebrated where you are, rather than where you planned to be?

Many families now accept that Christmas does not have to happen on a specific date to be meaningful.

Stay Connected and Communicate Early

If you’re delayed or unable to travel, let people know as soon as possible. Most stress comes from uncertainty rather than disappointment.

A quick message saying:

“We’re safe, but delayed – we’ll update you as soon as we know more” can reduce worry on all sides.

Look After Yourself While You Wait

If you’re stranded at a station, service area or airport:

Keep warm and hydrated

Eat when you can

Conserve phone battery

Be patient with staff – they are often under enormous pressure

A small amount of preparation, such as carrying snacks, water and a charger, can make a huge difference.

Remember: Christmas Is More Than the Journey

It’s easy to feel that Christmas has been “ruined” when plans fall apart. In reality, Christmas is about connection, kindness and care – not perfect logistics.

Some of the most memorable Christmas stories begin with travel chaos and end with unexpected warmth, laughter and togetherness.

If plans change, you haven’t failed Christmas. You’re simply celebrating it differently this year.

Disrupted travel is never ideal, but how we respond to it matters. Stay safe, stay flexible, stay kind – to yourself and to others – and remember that Christmas can still arrive, even if your journey doesn’t go to plan.

Driving Home for Christmas: Making Sure Your Vehicle (and You) Get There Safely

For many of us, Christmas begins the moment we turn the key in the ignition and set off to see family, friends, or loved ones. 

Whether you’re driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or heading off in a van packed with presents, food, and festive cheer, getting home safely is far more important than arriving on time.

Winter driving in the UK can be unpredictable at the best of times. Add heavier traffic, shorter days, poor weather, and tired drivers into the mix, and it’s clear why preparation matters.

Give Your Vehicle a Pre-Christmas Health Check

Before you even think about loading the boot, your vehicle needs to be road-ready.

Tyres should be your first check. Ensure they are correctly inflated, have plenty of tread (at least the legal minimum of 1.6mm, though more is far better in winter), and show no signs of damage. Motorcyclists should also check tyre condition carefully, as cold, wet roads significantly reduce grip.

Lights and visibility are crucial during dark winter journeys. Check all exterior lights, including indicators and brake lights. Clean your headlights and mirrors, and top up screenwash with a proper winter mix to prevent freezing.

Brakes, oil, and fluids should not be overlooked. Make sure your oil level is correct, coolant is topped up, and brake fluid is at a safe level. If you’ve been putting off a service, Christmas is not the time to gamble.

Battery health is another winter weak spot. Cold weather can finish off an already-tired battery, leaving you stranded on Christmas Eve. If your car has been slow to start recently, get it checked.

Loading Up Safely

Christmas often means carrying more than usual. Presents, food, suitcases, pets, and sometimes even flat-packed furniture can all end up squeezed in.

Distribute weight evenly and secure loose items so they don’t become projectiles during sudden braking. Vans should be loaded with particular care, keeping heavier items low and well-restrained. Motorcyclists should double-check panniers, top boxes, and straps.

Overloading your vehicle not only affects handling and braking but can also invalidate insurance.

Your Emergency Car Kit: Don’t Leave Home Without It

A well-prepared emergency kit can turn a stressful breakdown into a manageable inconvenience.

At a minimum, your Christmas emergency kit should include:

Warm blankets or coats

A torch (plus spare batteries)

High-visibility vest

Warning triangle

Fully charged power bank for your phone

Ice scraper and de-icer

First-aid kit

Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

For longer journeys or rural routes, consider adding a shovel, jump leads, and a paper road map in case your phone loses signal.

Motorcyclists should carry thermal layers, waterproofs, and a basic tool kit, while van drivers may want extra straps and a spare torch.

Plan the Journey, Not Just the Destination

Before setting off, check weather forecasts and traffic updates. Build in extra time and be realistic about how long the journey will take. Rushing leads to poor decisions.

Let someone know your route and expected arrival time, especially if you’re travelling late at night or in poor conditions. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and never drive when overtired.

Christmas Starts with Getting There Safely

Driving home for Christmas should be about anticipation, not anxiety. A little preparation ensures your car, motorcycle, or van is ready for the journey, and that you’re equipped to handle whatever winter throws your way.

Presents can wait. Christmas dinner can be reheated. The most important thing is arriving safely, ready to enjoy the season with the people who matter most.

Safe travels — and Merry Christmas.

A Little Christmas Gift From Us to You – Download, Print or Share Our Exclusive Christmas Card

Download our exclusive That’s Christmas 365 Christmas card, which is utterly free to print, share or forward and spread festive cheer to friends, family, colleagues and neighbours.

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe that Christmas isn’t just a day, it’s a feeling, a mindset, and something worth sharing all year round. That’s why we’ve created something special just for our readers and followers.

We’re delighted to introduce our exclusive That’s Christmas 365 Christmas card, designed especially for our community and available completely free to download.

A Card Made Just for the That’s Christmas 365 Family

This isn’t a generic festive image pulled from a stock library. This card was created specifically for That’s Christmas 365, reflecting everything we stand for, warmth, tradition, community spirit and the joy of Christmas, every single day of the year.

It carries our branding, our festive heart, and a simple seasonal message that can be shared far and wide.

How You Can Use the Card

Once downloaded, you’re free to enjoy it in whichever way suits you best:

Print it out and include it with gifts or cards for friends, neighbours or family

Email it to someone who could use a little Christmas cheer

Forward it digitally via messaging apps or social media. Maybe even save it on your 'phone?

Keep it saved as a festive reminder that Christmas spirit doesn’t have an expiry date

Whether it ends up pinned to a fridge, tucked into a present, or forwarded across the country, we love the idea of it travelling far beyond our website.

Free to Download, Free to Share

There’s no sign-up, no catch, and no pressure. This is simply our way of saying thank you for being part of the That’s Christmas 365 community.

All we ask is that it remains shared in the spirit it was intended – spreading goodwill, kindness and a little festive warmth wherever it lands.

Where to Find It

You’ll be able to download it by right clicking and pressing save. Save it, print it, pass it on, and help us remind others that Christmas joy doesn’t have to be limited to one day in December.

From all of us at That’s Christmas 365,

Thank you for reading, sharing, and keeping Christmas alive all year long.

Why Now Is the Time to Make Your Last Push to Promote Your Services for Christmas

Every December, there comes a moment when hesitation becomes the enemy of opportunity. Christmas is no longer “approaching." It’s here!

Shoppers are in buying mode, diaries are filling up, and decisions are being made quickly.

If you offer a service rather than a physical product, now is the crucial window to make your final promotional push.

Whether you’re a tradesperson, shop owner, artisan creator, consultant, caterer, cleaner, designer, photographer, or run a local service business, this final stretch before Christmas can still deliver real results.

Christmas Isn’t Just About Gifts

One of the biggest misconceptions is that Christmas promotion only benefits retailers. In reality, services are in high demand in the final weeks before Christmas:

Homes need cleaning, decorating, repairs and last-minute fixes

Businesses need marketing support, design work and admin help before year-end

Families look for childcare, pet care, tutoring and event support

People actively seek services that reduce stress and save time

Christmas creates pressure — and pressure creates demand for help.

People Are Actively Searching Right Now

In the run-up to Christmas, people are no longer “browsing”. They are searching with intent:

“Can anyone do this before Christmas?”

“Is there availability this week?”

“Who can help quickly?”

If your business is visible right now, on your website, social media, That's Christmas 365, Google Business profile or local listings, you are far more likely to be chosen than a competitor who has gone quiet for December.

Silence suggests you’re unavailable. Activity suggests you’re open for business.

The Urgency Works in Your Favour

Christmas brings a powerful psychological driver: urgency.

People know time is short. That means:

Faster decisions

Fewer price objections

More willingness to book immediately

A clear message such as “Limited pre-Christmas availability” or “Last slots before Christmas” isn’t pushy — it’s helpful. It reassures customers that you understand their time pressures and encourages them to act.

You’re Also Planting Seeds for January

Even if someone can’t book you before Christmas, your visibility now still matters.

December is when many people:

Shortlist suppliers

Bookmark services

Plan January improvements

Set business and personal goals

Being visible now puts your business front of mind for the New Year, when enquiries often surge.

Small Actions Can Still Have Big Impact

A final Christmas push doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. Simple actions can work wonders:

Post a reminder that you’re still taking bookings

Update your website homepage with a Christmas message

Share availability on social media

Email existing customers to remind them you’re open

Add a festive but professional tone to your messaging

Consistency and clarity matter more than perfection.

Don’t Assume It’s “Too Late”

Many businesses stop promoting because they assume the opportunity has passed. In reality, this is when indecision turns into action.

If someone needs your service and sees you clearly offering it, right now, you may be exactly what they’ve been waiting for.

Christmas rewards businesses that stay visible, helpful and proactive until the very end.

If you’ve been telling yourself “It’s probably too late,” consider this your sign that it isn’t.

Make the post. Send the email. Update the website.

Your next Christmas booking, or your first January client, may depend on it.

Please note, to be included on That's Christmas 365 email us afj_uk@yahoo.com.

Why Every Business Should Help Promote a Merry Christmas for Everyone in Their Community

Why businesses of all sizes should promote a Merry Christmas in their community, supporting goodwill, inclusion, charity and long-term customer trust.

Christmas is more than a retail season or a line on the marketing calendar. For many people across the UK, it is a time of connection, kindness, shared traditions and community spirit. 

Businesses of every size, from independent traders and family-run firms to national brands, have a unique opportunity to help foster a genuinely Merry Christmas for everyone around them.

Christmas Is a Community Event, Not Just a Commercial One

While sales, footfall and seasonal offers matter, Christmas has always been rooted in togetherness. Communities come alive at this time of year: lights go up, charity collections appear in shop doorways, and familiar faces become even more important. When businesses lean into this spirit, they help reinforce the idea that Christmas belongs to everyone, not just those who can afford to spend freely.

A welcoming window display, a festive greeting, or simply creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere can make a surprising difference to someone who may be struggling, lonely, or under pressure.

Supporting Local Charities and Good Causes

Christmas is the peak season for food banks, community kitchens, homelessness charities and mental health support organisations. Businesses are often perfectly placed to help, whether by hosting collection points, donating surplus stock, offering staff volunteering hours, or promoting local initiatives through their own platforms.

Even small gestures can have a large impact. A single supermarket trolley of donations, a café offering suspended meals, or a small firm fundraising for a local cause can help ensure fewer people feel forgotten during the festive period.

Creating Inclusive and Considerate Spaces

Not everyone experiences Christmas as a joyful time. Bereavement, financial hardship, ill health and isolation can make December particularly difficult. Businesses that promote a Merry Christmas thoughtfully, rather than aggressively, show empathy and awareness.

Simple steps such as clear pricing, avoiding pressure-based sales tactics, training staff to be patient and kind, and being mindful in festive messaging all contribute to a more inclusive environment. A business that recognises this will be remembered long after the decorations come down.

Strengthening Trust and Long-Term Loyalty

Consumers increasingly value businesses that demonstrate social responsibility and genuine care for their communities. Promoting a Merry Christmas isn’t about virtue signalling, it’s about aligning actions with values.

Customers notice when a business supports local events, sponsors community activities, or goes out of its way to help others. These actions build trust, strengthen reputations and encourage long-term loyalty that lasts well beyond December.

Setting the Tone for the Year Ahead

Christmas often sets the emotional tone for the months that follow. A business that ends the year by spreading goodwill, generosity and positivity enters the new year with stronger relationships — with customers, staff and the wider community.

For employees especially, seeing their workplace contribute to something positive can boost morale and reinforce a sense of purpose. Staff who feel proud of their employer are more engaged, motivated and likely to stay.

A Merry Christmas Benefits Everyone

Promoting a Merry Christmas doesn’t require grand gestures or large budgets. It starts with kindness, awareness and a willingness to play a positive role in the lives of others. Whether through charity support, inclusive practices, community engagement or simply treating people well, businesses help shape the festive experience for those around them.

When businesses work to ensure Christmas is warmer, fairer and more welcoming, the entire community benefits, and that is something truly worth celebrating.

When I was a child one company that employed my father arranged for the children of all employees to either visit a professional pantomime performance or to attend a special Christmas party. 

Foodstock Charity: Tackling Poverty and Building Community in Belfast

In the heart of Belfast, a grassroots movement is making a real difference in the lives of individuals and families facing hardship. 

Foodstock Charity is a community-focused charity dedicated to alleviating poverty, providing vital food support and empowering people through practical services and long-term initiatives. 

A Mission Born From Community Solidarity

What began as a simple act of kindness in the founder’s own home has grown into a powerful force for good across the entire city. 

Foodstock’s mission centres on tackling poverty and building a more resilient, connected community. The charity endeavours not only to provide immediate food relief but also to support people holistically, recognising everyone’s situation is different and that support needs to reach beyond the basics. 

Support That Makes a Real Difference

At the core of Foodstock’s work is its food-support programme. With the help of community donations and local partnerships, the charity distributes tens of thousands of meals each year to people living in crisis. 

Referrals from health trusts, schools, advice centres and other local organisations help Foodstock identify where support is most needed and act quickly to offer food parcels, fresh food and other essentials. 

But the charity’s impact doesn’t stop there. Their Community Solidarity Hub also offers:

Healthy school breakfast provision, ensuring children start the day nourished and ready to learn.

A pre-loved school uniform hub, easing financial pressures on families during the school year. 

Advice and wellbeing services, including benefits guidance, job support with CVs and interview preparation, and healthcare initiatives. 

Community projects, such as growing initiatives, wellbeing groups and warm spaces for vulnerable people. 

A Christmas appeal that provides gifts for over 2,000 children and festive dinners for hundreds of people who might otherwise spend the holidays alone. 

Community at Its Heart

Foodstock’s volunteers are integral to its success. From distributing food and welcoming visitors at the hub to supporting community events and outreach programmes, their dedication helps the charity reach many more people in need. Whether you’re looking to offer time, skills or simply a listening ear, volunteering with Foodstock is a meaningful way to contribute to the wellbeing of others. 

Get Involved and Support the Cause

Like many charities, Foodstock relies on the generosity of individuals, local businesses and community groups. Donations, whether of time, funds or food, help sustain and expand their reach across Belfast. Every contribution plays a part in building a stronger, more compassionate community where no one has to face hardship alone. 

To learn more about Foodstock’s work, how to refer someone for their support, especially this Christmas, or ways you can get involved, visit their official website or drop into their Community Solidarity Hub on Andersonstown Road in Belfast.

https://www.foodstockcharity.com