Some kindness goes a long way during the festive period, no matter how big or small the act is. Brits are officially kinder during Christmas, helping those in need and showing some Christmas cheer. From donating to food banks to checking on vulnerable neighbours, the people of Liverpool are known to come together, being named the second kindest city in the UK.
Santander has conducted research determining who’s the kindest of them all – and the first place has got us shook. What is more, the results have found that over a third of British people are more likely to perform random acts of kindness during the festive period, with a fourth of the population smiling more, and a fifth giving more compliments than usual.
To help spread festive cheer, Santander has teamed up with viral creator @HarveyRidesBikes, who has turned his usual bike into a ‘Santa Cycle’ to surprise Londoners with gifts and red chocolate coins. Why Londoners, you ask? Well, London was officially named the kindest city in the UK. WHAT!
However, Liverpool is still second on the list, so we haven’t lost the plot entirely (yet). The third kindest city in the UK is Manchester, performing plenty of acts of kindness.
Top acts of kindness
The top 10 acts of kindness Brits will carry out to spread joy this Christmas:
- Donate food or toys to local charities and food banks (33%).
- Supporting small or local businesses when present buying (31%).
- Carving out more time to see friends and family (31%).
- Checking in on vulnerable people or those who may be experiencing loneliness at Christmas (21%).
- Cooking for other people, such as friends and neighbours (19%).
- Giving genuine compliments to strangers (19%).
- Leaving larger tips for waiting staff (16%).
- Being nicer to work colleagues (13%).
- Striking up conversation at times they usually wouldn’t, such as when commuting (13%).
- Letting other Christmas shoppers skip their place in the queue (12%).
Josie Clapham, Director of Customer 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.”
Viral creator HarveyRidesBikes said: “Riding around on my bike handing out sweets has shown me how small acts of kindness really bring 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 Santander’s research confirm that the UK feels the same and isn’t a nation of Scrooges.”